Former Nagaland footballer, Kekhrienguzo Christopher Ringa (48), passed away on 22nd October 2024 following a brief illness and was laid to rest on Wednesday at New Market colony, Kohima. A press release informed that late Ringa’s last rites were conducted by Rev. Fr. Dominic Rau, assistant priest of St. Francis de Sales Parish, Kohima Town.

Over the course of his professional career as a footballer, the former striker brought laurels to the state of Nagaland and the New Market Team. “His most memorable days in football included winning the North East Sports Festival Championship in Gangtok, Sikkim, and representing the state in the Centre of Excellence All India Trials held at Sainik School Golpara, Assam,” read a condolence message issued by the New Market Sports Committee.

“His death has left the football fraternity in anguish and despair,” it continued, adding: “In these moments of sadness and sorrow, the sports committee stands in solidarity with the bereaved family and prays to the Almighty for eternal rest and peace for the departed soul.”

Khrieketoulie Metha, President of the New Market Youth Organisation (NMYO), expressed condolences on Ringa’s passing, describing him as “a prominent youth member whose dedication, service, and invaluable contributions to NMYO cannot be expressed in words.” He further described the former footballer as “a prolific footballer who played a key role in winning many major championships, bringing laurels to the state and the New Market Team.”

Kekhrienguzo Christopher Ringa was also a talented musician who was also well-known for his instinctive drumming skills and was a member of several prominent bands in the state, including the popular Methaneilie Jütakhrie. He remained the standing drummer for Cotton County until his last breath.

“Kekhrienguzo’s love for music, whether in performances or moments of quiet reflection, will deeply resonate with many,” Metha added in his condolence message.

Meanwhile his band, Cotton County, mentioned in a tribute that he had served government departments, civil societies, various social organisations, including churches, dignitaries and high government officials, as well as the poor and needy through his musical talents.

Condolence messages also poured in from the Kohima District Football Association, Chesezu Welfare Association, Kezhie Krotho, Sector Committee Daklane-III, Methaneilie Solo, and others.