Rio graces closing ceremony of Northeast Dr T Ao Trophy
Our Bureau
KOHIMA, January 28, 2020: Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio graced the closing Ceremony and Finals of the Northeast Dr T Ao Trophy as the special guest Tuesday at IG Stadium in Kohima.
In his address Rio said Dr Talimeren Ao was India’s first ever captain of the Indian football team at the London Olympic Games in 1948. He remain one of the greatest sons of Nagaland and a legendary figure who will inspire every generation, "He was a champion, a nation builder and an icon who proved that no dream is impossible if one truly desires."
Rio congratulated all organisations, all government departments and all individuals who have made the 2020 edition a grand success, "I extend my appreciation to all the participants and to my chief minister colleagues of the north eastern states who have sent their teams, all of who have played the championships in an exemplary spirit of sportsmanship."
He expressed gratitude to the sports lovers and football fans that have come out in thousands to support not just the teams but also the championships as a whole. He said the success of the event is because of the positive support of the people of Nagaland.
The Chief Minister assured the sports fraternity that the Government of Nagaland in collaboration with the Nagaland Olympic Association, the Government of India and the Indian Olympic Association is formulating a comprehensive long-term game-plan to develop sports in the State, "We assure you that in the not very far future we hope to not only produce champions but also host national and international events and championships here in Nagaland. All sections and stakeholders must work together as a cohesive unit and each citizen is a member of Team Nagaland."
TAFMA performed cultural fusion music and dance while Mengu Suokhrie and the band also presented special numbers. A minute silence was observed in remembrance of the passing away of former President of Nagaland Wrestling Association Satuo Kuotsu.