Tuophema-Ungma 25-year bond: Rio, Jamir call for united Naga voice

Highlighting a shared legacy of unity and vision, two veteran politicians of Nagaland– chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio and former chief minister and governor Dr. S.C. Jamir– on Saturday reaffirmed the enduring significance of the “Rüna Khrieto-Maong Aksü” between Tuophema and Ungma villages, a friendship bond they jointly conceptualised in 2001 to foster unity and harmony among Naga communities. The silver jubilee celebration was held at Yimtsüngda Arok Sabang (Amphitheatre) Ungma.
In a significant gesture of unity, Ungma Village Council (Kosasanger Pusu Menden) donated three parcels of ancestral land to Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation, Central Nagaland Tribes Council and Tenyimi Union Nagaland.
Addressing the silver jubilee celebration of the “Rüna Khrieto-Maong Aksü” as special guest, under the theme “To Bolster Amity”, Rio underscored the importance of preserving Naga culture and strengthening unity among communities,
Extending Moatsü greetings to the Ao community, Rio lauded the vibrant cultural displays and said that festivals such as Moatsü were not merely occasions of celebration but reflections of the rich traditions, identity and customary practices of the Naga people.
He emphasised that these must be actively preserved and passed on to younger generations to ensure continuity of heritage.
Sharing the background of the Aksü, Rio said the friendship bond was conceptualised when Dr. S.C. Jamir was chief minister and he was home minister, with the vision of building bridges between communities. He said the initiative aimed to connect the Aos through Ungma and the Angamis and Tenyimias through Tuophema, with the larger objective of fostering unity and peace among all Nagas.
Recalling the symbolic slaughter of a pig during the first Aksü in Tuophema as a mark of brotherhood, Rio commended both villages for sustaining the spirit of friendship over the past 25 years. He expressed happiness at the active participation of the youth and said such involvement was crucial for carrying forward the legacy. Looking ahead, he expressed hope that the golden jubilee celebration would be hosted by Tuophema and that the bond would continue to strengthen in the years to come.
Rio also lauded Ungma village for its gesture of donating ancestral land to ENPO, CNTC and Tenyimi Union, describing it as a significant step that reflected shared commitment and unity within the Naga family. He said the friendship between the two villages symbolised not just a local bond but a broader connection between the Aos and Angamis, and expressed hope that such unity would extend across all Naga communities. The chief minister also released the jubilee souvenir.
Earlier, speaking as honoured dignitary, Dr SC Jamir described the occasion as a landmark moment celebrating 25 years of enduring friendship and mutual respect. Reflecting on the origins of the bond, he said it was intended to demonstrate unity through action and inspire harmony across the state. He urged the people to move beyond tribalism and work collectively towards a united, harmonious and prosperous Nagaland.
Expressing concern over growing divisions and factionalism in society, Jamir said such trends were detrimental to progress and called for a reorientation of thinking. He stressed the need to overcome divisive tendencies and focus on building a better future and legacy for the younger generation.
Speaker Nagaland Legislative Assembly Sharingain Longkumer, who served as chief host, highlighted the historic nature of the alliance formed during challenging times and expressed hope for its continued strength.
Greetings were delivered by minister G. Kaito Aye and Tuophema village council chairman Pfuduolhou Kense.
The programme also featured cultural performances by Tuophema cultural troupe and Kongshir Ungma, showcasing the rich traditions of the communities. The celebration concluded with a community dance led by Watemdong Cultural Club, bringing together dignitaries and attendees in a display of unity and shared heritage.
To cement their commitment, Ungma and Tuophema villages formally adopted the “Ungma Declaration”, initatied by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation, pledging to continuously strengthen and carry forward their unique bond of friendship.
The event was attended by a host of dignitaries including legislators, officials and community leaders from both the villages.
As part of the practise, the Rüna Khrietho–Maong Aksü ceremony was led by Imtidongba Jamir. The ritual featured the traditional sharing of a pig, divided equally between the two villages, symbolising goodwill, equality, and mutual respect.