For Nagaland to change, we must first change the way we think about leadership.
One of the greatest inspirations in the modern world is Lee Kuan Yew, the founding father of Singapore — a man who turned a divided, resource-scarce island into one of the world’s most prosperous nations. His leadership wasn’t born out of comfort but out of a clear vision, discipline, and unshakable values.
Though thousands of miles away, his voice has reached the hills of Nagaland — and more importantly, into the hearts of those who dare to believe that transformation is possible here too.
What Nagaland can learn from Lee Kuan Yew
Listening to Lee Kuan Yew’s interviews, one truth becomes clear: a nation rises not because of wealth or population, but because of the character of its leaders.
In one of his many powerful moments, he said:
“A nation is great not by its size alone. It is the will, the cohesion, the stamina, the discipline of its people and the quality of their leaders which ensure it an honourable place in history.”
That’s exactly what Nagaland needs.
Not just more development projects or political schemes — but a cultural awakening, led by young people with the stamina to serve, and the moral strength to say “enough is enough.”
A generation that must rise
Today’s youth are more aware, more connected, and more capable than any generation before. But without direction, they become frustrated and disengaged. Without mentors, they risk falling into the same traps of emotional manipulation, tribal division, and political corruption that have plagued our society for too long.
We must empower the youth to be builders, not just critics.
We need to:
Encourage bold, educated voices to enter public life.
Create platforms for ethical leadership, not just popular faces.
Teach our children that true power lies in serving, not controlling.
This is not about creating political leaders alone. It is about nurturing servant-hearted visionaries in every field — teachers, social workers, artists, entrepreneurs, reformers.
The forgotten role of faith institutions
In Nagaland, faith plays a powerful role. Churches are at the heart of our identity. But today, we must ask a difficult question:
Are our churches raising strong citizens and ethical leaders — or just good listeners?
Religious institutions must do more than preach. They must prepare. Our pastors, youth leaders, and theologians must begin to train minds and transform hearts — building resilience, character, and a deep sense of mission.
Let the Church become not just a place of comfort but a crucible of courage. Let faith inspire civic action, educational reform, and economic discipline. The spiritual revival Nagaland prays for must be accompanied by a leadership revival.
The vision ahead
Singapore was once poor, divided, and overlooked — just like many Northeastern states. But through strong leadership and cultural discipline, it became a model for the world.
Nagaland, too, can rise — not by copying, but by learning.
Not by waiting, but by building.
Not by nostalgia, but by a bold vision for the next 20 years.
We need youth who read, speak truth, lead with integrity. We need faith institutions that mold warriors of justice. We need a collective will to uproot corruption and plant seeds of excellence.
It is time.
Nagaland can be transformed.
The question is — will we dare to lead?
Pele George
The writer is a columnist , author and Educator dedicated to raising a new generation of servant leaders in Nagaland.