Advisor to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Chairman IDAN, Vice President, Athletics Federation of India and Secretary General, Nagaland Olympic Association, Abu Metha graced the 2nd day of the Hornbill Extension 2025 as the Special Guest held on 5th December 2025 at Zunheboto. Former Minister, Y. Vikheho Swu; Chairman TaFMA, Theja Meru and Rusemtong Longkumer, PRO to the Chief Minister & Working President NPF also graced the event.
Speaking on the occasion, Abu Metha expressed his joy to be a part of the Hornbill Extension in Zunheboto for the first time. He thanked the Sumi community and the Naga people for their warm welcome and acknowledged the immense contribution of the Sumi community to Naga history and the Naga political movement.
He made special mention of leaders such as Isak Chishi Swu and Hokishe Sema, noting that their legacy is why Sumi land is known as the “Land Of Warriors”, a pride shared by all Nagas. Metha also highlighted the achievements of Hokato Hotozhe Sema, a decorated Indian Army para-athlete who won bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympics and a recipient of the Arjuna Award 2024.
He said the Hornbill Festival has become a unifying platform for the Naga people and is now recognized internationally. Under the vision of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, the festival has welcomed six partner countries and grown into a global space for partnership, cultural exchange, and showcasing Naga soft power.
Metha stated that Nagas today have a newfound confidence and that “Brand Nagaland” is being advanced by the youth, who are taking the state beyond its boundaries through talent and creativity. He stated that today, Nagas are known not for insurgency or violence, but for peace, culture and excellence. He therefore encouraged the youth to contribute to both the state and the nation, and expressed pride in the progress made by the Naga people and appreciation for the leadership of the Sumi community.
He also shared his hope to develop the Sumi Church into an international pilgrimage site with the community’s cooperation. Looking ahead, he said that next year’s Hornbill Festival will be “grander and greater,” with plans to bring international artists under the Chief Minister’s vision.
Metha reaffirmed his full support and expressed joy at being in Sumi country, assuring that he looks forward to working closely with the community. He urged Nagas to rise above tribalism and unite as one people, adding that despite many challenges, Nagas have achieved much and can reach even greater heights through unity.
In his greetings, DC Zunheboto, Dharam Raj, IAS lauded the significance of the festival and said he was amazed by how the Hornbill Festival has become a household name, adding that the Hornbill Extension plays a crucial role in promoting Nagaland to the world. The DC praised Sumi Youth Organization (SYO) for their commendable efforts and emphasized the need to fuse traditional values with modern aspirations.
He noted that once ignorant about the State, now people visit Nagaland with a positive perception and today, Nagaland is widely recognized for its hospitality. He expressed hope that the festivities would continue to expand across all districts and the celebration would grow with even greater zeal in the coming years.
In his Presidential Address, Advocate Hikavi H. Kinimi, President of SYO highlighted the importance of cultural preservation and community involvement in sustaining heritage and values.
The session was chaired by Adv. Vinnoka Achumi, Joint Secretary of the Sumi Youth Organisation (SYO) and the invocation was delivered by Pastor, Vechulo Doulo of Tenyimi Church, Zunheboto.
A special harmony presentation was performed by Living Voice, adding a soulful essence to the event. A key highlight of the evening was “The Heritage & Heart of Native Sumi Naga Tribe”, presented by Lilika Achumi, showcasing the deep-rooted traditions of the Sumi people.
The activity featured: Aphilo Kuwo, a traditional Sumi folk dance performed by Aghunato Village. The winner of the Apukhu Kiti in the senior category was bagged by Aqhevi Shohe and Aboto Natho respectively. In the junior category, Atuna V Kiba and Agape S were declared the winner and runner-up respectively.
The second day of the festival culminated successfully showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the Sumi Naga tribe while strengthening community bonds through heritage and tradition.
(Sepikiu S Sangtam, IA Zunheboto)
