The 1st Inter-Ward Football Tournament for the Dimapur Municipal Council Trophy 2025 officially kicked off on 6th of October 2025 at DDSC Stadium, Dimapur. The event is organized by the Dimapur District Veteran Football Association (DDVFA) in collaboration with the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC), aiming to promote unity, sportsmanship, and community engagement through football. The opening ceremony was graced by Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, NCS, Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, as the Special Guest.
In his address, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang appreciated the initiative taken by the DDVFA and DMC to create a platform for inter-ward collaboration through football. He emphasized the role of such events in building healthy communities and nurturing local talent.
The Deputy Commissioner called on the youths to take up sports as a vital tool for building unity, discipline, and personal growth during the ongoing inter-ward sports tournament in the district. The DC also emphasized that “sports unite everyone together” and have become one of the most important aspects of youth development today. He noted that participation in sports fosters teamwork, mental strength, and physical fitness, all of which are essential for achieving success in life.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to improving sports infrastructure, the DC announced that the DDSC Stadium will soon be upgraded, with a proposal already submitted to the government. “With determination and focus, we can achieve our goals. The upcoming improvements will create better opportunities for our young athletes,” he said.
Encouraging the participants, the DC reminded them to take the tournament as a privilege and an opportunity to strive toward their goals. “Unless we focus, we won’t reach our goals. We must remain both mentally and physically fit,” he added.
He also expressed hope that in the next edition of the inter-ward tournament, every ward in Dimapur will take part, making it a citywide celebration of unity and sportsmanship.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment, the DC assured that the District Administration will continue to support initiatives that promote sports and youth engagement
Speaking at the event, DMC Chairperson Hukheto Yepthomi highlighted the vital role sports play in shaping disciplined, healthy, and responsible citizens. “Sports serve as a foundation for human development and have the power to transform lives and strengthen communities,” he said. The Chairperson emphasized that the tournament aims not only to promote sports but also to empower the youth, the future of society by providing platforms to showcase their talents and develop their potential.
He further commended the Dimapur District Veteran Football Association (DDVFA) for its long-standing contribution to football development, fostering unity through sports, and mentoring younger generations. Yepthomi stated that the DMC’s mission aligns closely with DDVFA’s goals of youth engagement and community building.
Referring to the government’s commitment to sports development, he praised the leadership of Chief Minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, whose initiatives - including the inauguration of new sports facilities across Nagaland reflects the state’s dedication to athletic excellence and creating opportunities for future generations.
“This inaugural tournament is just the beginning of what we hope will become an annual tradition,” Yepthomi said. “It will pave the way for greater sports programming and youth engagement across Dimapur and beyond, and may this tournament inspire excellence in sports and serve as a catalyst for the holistic development of our society and city,” he concluded.
The ceremony began with an invocation by Moalong walling, Pastor, Yinsem fellowship, DABA and welcome address from Apan, General Secretary, DDVFA.
The programme was compared by Matsung Ozukum and Sangtila Longchar. The event also featured a special number and the participation of 23 wards under Dimapur Municipal Council.
(Limatoshi, IA Dimapur)
