The inaugural programme of the Peren District Football League 2026 (PDFL 3.0), organised by the Peren District Football Association (PDFA), was held on 7th March 2026 at the Turf Ground, Jalukie Town.
SE (Retd.), Department of Agriculture, Government of Nagaland, Achakbo Newmai attended the programme as the special guest, while Chairman, Mhainamtsi Village Council, Ziudi Thou attended as the special invitee.
In his inaugural address, Achakbo Newmai congratulated the organising committee and participating players on the successful commencement of the league. He stated that the Peren District Football League is currently one of the most active and functional football leagues among the districts of Nagaland, adding that only a few districts in the state are consistently organising active football leagues and tournaments.
Sharing a message from the Bible verse Proverbs 18:10, he encouraged the players to remain calm and to avoid anger, adding that as children of God they should participate in sports with the fear of God and give their best in the field. Congratulating the players present at the event, he said they were fortunate to be part of such a platform.
Referring to the recently concluded Liangmai Sports Association tournament held at Samziuram village, he noted that many talented players from the Zeliangrong community had displayed their potential during the competition. He further stated that Peren District is strategically located in close proximity to the state capital Kohima and the commercial hub Dimapur, adding that the district also has several good football grounds and facilities. With such infrastructure, he expressed hope that the district would produce more talented players who could reach higher levels and earn a livelihood through football.
Achakbo also acknowledged the efforts of the organisers, stating that they are putting in their best efforts and investing significant resources to conduct the league. In this regard, he urged the players to perform well and make a name for themselves to secure employment opportunities through sports.
In his speech, Chairman, Mhainamtsi Village Council, Ziudi Thou said the commencement of the third edition of the league marked a significant moment for football lovers in Peren District. He stated that the district is blessed with a large number of football enthusiasts and talented players and expressed hope that the current edition would provide greater opportunities and a brighter future for the players.
He appreciated the Peren District Football Association for organising the league despite limited funds and resources and lauded the PDFA President and his team for their dedication in promoting football in the district and nurturing young players to reach higher levels.
Highlighting the need for financial support, he suggested that efforts be made to sustain the league by exploring different sources of funding. In this regard, he mentioned that the district has two constituencies and suggested that a Memorandum of Understanding could be worked out to allocate a certain percentage of the Local Area Development Programme (LADP) funds annually for the league.
Encouraging the players, he urged them not to treat football merely as a pastime but to work hard with commitment and dedication and utilise the platform provided through the league. Citing the example of France international footballer N Golo Kante, he briefly highlighted the importance of discipline and hard work in achieving success in sports. He also advised the players to keep faith in God and strive for greater achievements in the future.
The programme was chaired by Joint Secretary, PDFA, Ngautube Chamlak. Invocation was pronounced by Youth Director, Jalukie B Baptist Church, Benthuile, while the welcome address was delivered by President, PDFA, Raithu Newmai. A musical performance was presented by the winner of Peren Voice Impact 2025, Karchile Pame.
The oath-taking ceremony was administered by the Media Team, PDFA, Dibam Domta.
Following the inaugural programme, the opening match of the league was played between Lekie Mtei Football Club and Friends of Society. In the match, Friends of Society defeated Lekie Mtei FC by 4-1 goals, marking a strong start to the tournament.
The tournament, which will conclude on March 23, 2026, is being participated by seven teams: Lekie Mtei FC, Friends of Society, Nchangram Lun FC, Kingdom Stewards, Mbaupungwa FC, Poilwa FC and Football Plus Academy.
(DPRO & Mamang, IA Peren)
