The Western Sumi Sports Association (WSSA) held a felicitation program in honor of Hokato Hotozhe Sema on October 12 at WSH Hiyam, Chekiye.
During his speech, Hokato Hotozhe Sema expressed his gratitude to God, saying, “I praise God for His goodness and for the strength He has given me. Despite the challenges I faced, including the amputation of my leg from a blast, I never lost faith in Him. Instead, I walked with God, and through this journey, I have been blessed.”
Reflecting on life’s challenges, he added, “In life, everything that happens—good or bad—has a divine purpose. There will always be hurdles, but if we remain steadfast and keep looking to God, there will be rewards.”
Hokato dedicated his achievement to the people of Sumi and the Naga community, expressing the need to strive to be a positive influence and create valuable opportunities for all Nagas. One such opportunity, he cited, is the Hokato Academy of Sports in Aghunaqa Niuland. He encouraged everyone to join hands in supporting such initiatives that benefit the community.
He concluded by thanking everyone for their support, stating, “Thank you all for your prayers and support on this journey. Together, we can make a difference.”
Shikaho Zhimomi, President of the Western Sumi Hoho (WSH), extended his heartfelt congratulations to Hokato Hotozhe Sema for his remarkable achievement as the first Naga to win a Paralympic medal, putting Nagaland on the global map. He stated that Hokato’s incredible journey is a testament to the growing potential of Naga athletes, demonstrating that with more platforms and facilities, greater heights can be achieved. Zhimomi also urged the government to honor Hokato’s legacy by establishing a program in his name.
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Similarly, Mughato Sema, Sports Director of the Western Sumi Sports Association (WSSA), congratulated Hokato for bringing laurels to Nagaland. He pointed out that while Arunachal Pradesh has constructed five international stadiums, the Nagaland government has yet to build even one. He questioned, “Why is the state government still reluctant to felicitate Hokato Hotozhe Sema?” and urged civil societies to raise their voices. He expressed hope that the government will fulfill its promises, emphasizing that sports itself generates job opportunities.
“Our future society is weak,” Mughato added. “The government needs to do a lot of homework and invest in upgrading sports to engage the youth. The future of our youth will shine only if the government and civil society organizations encourage and support them.” He concluded by noting, “We now have a history—Hokato Hotozhe Sema has won a medal in the Paralympics. However, government support remains insufficient.”
Short speeches were also delivered by the following individuals:Vikuto Achumi, President of the Western Sumi Kukami Hoho (WSKH), President of the Chakhroma Youth Organisation (CYO), President of the Western Chakhesang Youth Front (WCYF), President of the Aghunaqa Kukami Kuqhakulu (AKK), President of the Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC), President of the Sumi Officers Union Dimapur (SOUD), President of the Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU). The program was chaired by Kuhoto I. Awomi and V. Assulimi. The invocation was pronounced by Rev. Dr. Phughoto Sema, Executive Secretary of the Western Sumi Baptist Akukuhou Kuqhakulu (WSBAK).
