Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr. Neiphiu Rio graced the Closing Ceremony of the 25th Edition of Dr. T. Ao Inter-District Football Championship Trophy at Renpo Lu Sports Complex, Ungma, Mokokchung on 29th October 2026.

Dr. Neiphiu Rio in his closing ceremony speech stated that the successful completion of the 25th Edition is a testament to the dedication of the football fraternity and the collective efforts of all those who have worked tirelessly to sustain and preserve the legacy of Dr. T Ao.

Recalling the history of Dr. T Ao, Rio said, Talimeren Ao born in 1918 at Changki village, Mokokchung rose and excelled not only in sports but also in academics. He was the first Naga Olympian and captained the Indian football team during the London Olympics in 1948. In 1950, he became the first Naga physician, Rio stated.

Rio also highlighted that while the state is in preparation to host the 39th National Games, wrestling discipline scheduled for 2027, the Nagaland Olympics Association is also scheduled to organize Nagaland State and Para Games, which will commence from 2nd November, 2026.

Following the acquisition of Aizawl FC's league sporting rights, the Nagaland United Sports Club has entered into Indian Football League (IFL) for 2026-27 season, Rio remarked, it is an important milestone for state football.

The introduction of the Nagaland Super League (NSL) in 2024 provided a competitive platform, while Dr. T Ao Trophy has continued to strengthen the foundations of the game at the district level. Together these platforms have helped nurture young talents and create greater opportunities for aspiring footballers, Rio said.

While extending his appreciation to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for continued support towards the development of football in the state and the state government put its efforts to install astro turf in all districts, Rio urged everyone never to lose sight of the importance of grassroot sports but continue to seek and discover young talents and build their confidence and interest in sports.

While acknowledging the farsightedness of the Ungma village for providing land to establish Renpo Lu Sports Complex, he congratulated the Mon district and Tuensang district for reaching onto the finals, he encouraged the players to compete with true spirit of sportsmanship. Beyond the trophy, he encouraged everyone to celebrate teamwork, perseverance and friendship.

Chief host of the closing ceremony, Metsübo Jamir, Minister for Rural Development and SIRD said it is a moment of great pride for Mokokchung district and the state in general to celebrate together. Dr. T Ao Trophy has provided the young football enthusiast not only a game but also a movement where one finds friendship to celebrate in oneness, forgetting all differences and forging unity through football.

While appreciating the successful conclusion of Dr. T Ao Junior Girls National Football Championship in Chümoukedima, he encouraged the finalists to play with team spirit.

The Director, State Lotteries and Ssecretary, organising committee, Imsongmeren proposed the words of gratitude.

Earlier, Dr. Neiphiu Rio also released the 200 Silver Coins commemorating the Silver Jubilee Edition of Dr. T Ao. The silver coins were donated by PRO to Chief Minister, Rusemtong Longkumer.

The final match was played between Tuensang district versus Mon district. Both the teams managed to reach the back of the net 1-1 before the final 90 minutes whistle was blown, sending the thrilling match to an extra time. As both the teams hold their nerve, pushing the match to a penalty shootout. Mon district once again made an epic comeback with a goal of 4:2 to Tuensang district. With this win, Mon has consecutively lifted the trophy twice in a row. The final match was followed by a prize distribution ceremony.

(DPRO, Mokokchung)