Formal launching and slot allotment of the 1st Atuo Mezhür Sekhose Super League 2026 ceremony was held at 2K Hotel, Kohima, marking a significant milestone in the promotion of football in Nagaland while honouring the enduring legacy of late Atuo Mezhür Sekhose.
The league, featuring five teams—Mez & Co, Sechü Zubza FC, Tsütuonuomia Youth Organisation, Nurturing Youngsters FC, and Vanguard Academy—will be played from August 12 to 29 at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima. Four teams are from Kohima district, while Vanguard Academy represents Tseminyu district.
Speaking as the special guest, Neidilhou Keditsu Director of Economics and Statistics, Government of Nagaland, described the launch as a landmark occasion that would help transform the football landscape of the state.
He expressed hope that the league would become a platform for discovering exceptional football talent capable of representing both Nagaland and India.
“We want this league to produce players whom we can proudly call the Messi of Nagaland, the Ronaldo of Nagaland, or even the Bhaichung Bhutia of Nagaland,” he said, adding that nurturing talented players would elevate the state’s presence in national and international football.
Keditsu also thanked the family of late Atuo Mezhür Sekhose for carrying forward his legacy through the tournament. He described the late Sekhose as a philanthropist who dedicated his life to serving humanity and uplifting the underprivileged, saying the football league was a fitting tribute to his contributions.
Encouraging the participating clubs and team owners, he urged them to uphold the true spirit of the game and work collectively to make the league memorable for football enthusiasts across Nagaland.
Delivering the welcome address, KDFA General Secretary Viliebeizo Liezietsu said the launch marked not just the beginning of a football competition but the start of a new chapter in Kohima district’s football history inspired by the vision and lifelong dedication of late Atuo Mezhür Sekhose.
He said the league serves as a tribute to Sekhose’s commitment to football while promoting values of humility, teamwork, discipline, service and excellence. According to him, the competition aims to strengthen football clubs, nurture young talent and contribute meaningfully to the growth of football in Nagaland.
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Liezietsu also acknowledged the support of the Nagaland Football Association, the Department of Youth Resources and Sports, the Government of Nagaland, the family of late Atuo Mezhür Sekhose, participating clubs, officials and various committees for making the inaugural edition possible.
Addressing the gathering, KDFA Technical Director Kevilebei Zashümo presented the league preamble, describing the tournament as a celebration of remembrance, gratitude and football.
He said late Atuo Mezhür Sekhose’s passion, vision and dedication to football had left a lasting impact on the community, making the league a fitting tribute to his legacy.
Zashümo highlighted football’s ability to unite people across communities while teaching values such as teamwork, discipline, perseverance, leadership and fair play. He said the league would provide young footballers with opportunities to showcase their talent, develop their skills and pursue their dreams.
He further stressed that the tournament was about more than competition, noting that it also seeks to build character, promote healthy lifestyles and strengthen community bonds. He called upon players, coaches, officials and supporters to uphold sportsmanship, discipline and mutual respect throughout the competition.
The programme was chaired by KDFA Press Secretary Medolenuo Loucü, while the invocation was offered by Rev. Sentisashi Aier, Senior Pastor, Ao Baptist Church, Kohima.
The inaugural Atuo Mezhür Sekhose Super League is expected to become an annual event dedicated to inspiring the next generation of footballers while preserving the legacy of one of Nagaland’s most respected football patrons.
