Naga Students’ Federation urged to unite Nagas, chart long-term vision

Conference elects first Zeliangrong president since 1947

KOHIMA — Arunachal Pradesh legislator Laisam Simai on Friday urged the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) to play a greater unifying role for the Naga people.

Speaking at the valedictory session of the NSF’s 31st general conference at Tseminyu, Simai said that the federation is not just a student body but the present leadership of Naga fraternity. He reminded the gathering that the NSF was created with a clear purpose and called on members to reflect on its responsibility.

The MLA added that the federation should look beyond internal welfare and also create opportunities for gainful employment by working with government agencies and other organisations.

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Warning that unchecked modernisation poses a threat to the future, Simai urged young people to stay connected to their roots while building on the sacrifices of past leaders. He called on the federation to prepare a long-term roadmap for posterity.

He also pointed out the absence of women in the newly elected NSF executive and suggested that female representation be ensured in the future to make the leadership complete.

Advisor to chief minister and chairman of IDAN, Abu Metha, also addressed the session. He described the NSF as an institution that has consistently stood firm in the journey of the Naga people, often guiding society in times of crisis.

Metha reminded the new leadership of the heavy responsibility they bear, saying, “The aim is for Naga society to rise together as one and achieve success. It is important that youth succeed so they can contribute towards the goodness of humanity and to make the Nagaland of tomorrow better than the Nagaland of today.”

Meanwhile, the NSF has, for the first time since its inception in 1947, elected a member of the Zeliangrong community as its president.

Mteisuding of All Zeliangrong Students’ Union was elected president for the 2025-2027 tenure during the federation’s general election held on Friday.

He secured 14 out of 34 votes, defeating Ineka Z Awomi of the All Sumi Students’ Union  (Sumi Kiphimi Kuqhakulu) who secured 12 votes, Benjong Lonchar of Ao Students’ Conference (6 votes), and Chumben of the Lotha Students’ Union (2 votes).

The new executive team includes vice president Vimeyiekho Vitso, general secretary Kenilo Kent, assistant general secretary Veze Tunyi, secretary (social and culture) Thejalhoukho Thomas Khawakhrie, secretary (education) Ajo Tsela, secretary (finance) Katho P Awomi, secretary (publicity and information) Temjentoshi, and speaker of the federal assembly Mariko O Leriina.

Mteisuding thanked the Naga people and federation units for their trust, pledging to fight corruption, empower youth, and prioritise unity. “There are many confronting issues in Naga society, and unifying the people will be my first priority,” he said, adding that the Naga movement would be pursued with sincerity and diligence.

He has previously served as secretary (publicity and information) and as vice president before being elected president.

Outgoing president Medovi Rhi expressed gratitude to the members and urged them to uphold the principles of the federation. A formal change of guard will take place on August 30, marking the conclusion of the 31st general conference.