The 25th edition of the NSF Martyrs Memorial Trophy embarked on a symbolic journey across Naga homeland on March 20, with its first stop at Kohima Village, the birthplace of one of the martyrs, Lt. Kekuojalie Sachü.
The Kohima Village welcomed the trophy with a solemn event held at Kohima village council hall with a small event organised by the Kohima village students union along with village councils, organisations and association.
Sharing a brief note on the history of the Trophy, Prasielie Pienyü, former president of the Angami Students’ Union (ASU) and chairman, Nagaland Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation Ltd. (NHHDC), delivered a brief and poignant account of the trophy’s origins and significance.
He reminded the attendees that the NSF Martyrs Memorial Trophy was established to honor the sacrifices of Lt. Kekuojalie Sachü and Lt. Vikhozo Yhoshü-two young students who lost their lives during a peaceful protest organized by the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) on March 20, 1986.
Reflecting on the tournament’s journey over the past 25 years, Pienyü underscored how the event has evolved into a unifying platform, bringing together Nagas from all walks of life while keeping alive the spirit of the martyrs.
In a short speech, chairman KVC, Helevio Solo, delivered a stirring address, emphasizing that the Naga political solution is not the concern of a single tribe or village but a collective responsibility of all Nagas.
He expressed concern over the fragmentation of the Naga movement, pointing out that the so-called 28 factions of freedom fighters currently embroiled in conflicts do not represent the true Naga mandate.
Solo urged student bodies to rise above these divisions and work toward fostering peace, unity, and harmony. “Our student unions are stronger than these factions. It is through initiatives like the NSF Martyrs Memorial Trophy that we can inspire a new generation to stand united for the Naga cause,” he stated.
In a heartfelt tribute to his late brother, Zakievo-u Sachü, the younger sibling of Lt. Kekuojalie Sachü, recounted memories of his brother’s dedication to the Naga cause. He shared that Kekuojalie was the eldest of five children born to Lt. Zeluotuo Sachü and Lt. Vikhozoü and was a student of Baptist High (then known as Baptist English School) when he was martyred during the NSF-organized peace rally.
Zakievo-u expressed immense pride in his brother’s unwavering commitment to justice and the rights of the people, even at the cost of his life. He extended his gratitude to NSF, ASU, and all stakeholders for preserving his brother’s memory through the annual tournament.
He also acknowledged the efforts of the Kohima Village Students’ Union (KVSU) for organizing the event and ensuring that the occasion was celebrated with dignity and reverence.
The ceremonial reception of the trophy commenced with the unfurling of the NSF Martyrs Memorial Flag by Prasielie Pienyü. After receiving the trophy from the NSF Martyrs Park, the KVSU led a procession through Kohima Village, culminating at the KVC Hall.
The next destination for the trophy will be Baptist High, the alma mater of Lt. Kekuojalie Sachü, before proceeding to Kigwema Village, the home of Lt. Vikhozo Yhoshü, where the Kigwema Students’ Union will host the next leg of the tour.
Adding to the spirit of the event, Keneingu Albert Rutsa, coach of the KVSU team that emerged as champions in 1998, shared anecdotes of the team’s journey to victory. His reflections highlighted the perseverance and determination that have defined the tournament since its inception.
Earlier, the event was chaired by KVSU vice president, Vizovolie Rame, while the invocation was pronounced by Khedi Baptist Church associate pastor, Kezhakietuo Belho. The welcome address was delivered by KVSU president, Khriesaneikuo Kire, and a special musical tribute was presented by Vidisenuo Belho.