The 25th Anniversary of the Peshu Students’ Union (PSU) Silver Jubilee Memorial Football Tournament 2026, held on the theme “United in Silver Triumph,” was officially kicked off on January 12 at the Peshu Public Ground.
The opening day witnessed exciting encounters, beginning with the inaugural match between Peshu United and Eh-Hou Keng FC, which ended in a closely contested 1–1 draw, setting an energetic tone for the tournament.
The second match of the day saw Pioneers FC, Wui, deliver a dominant performance against Kaishu FC, Peshu, securing a convincing 3–0 victory.
The Silver Jubilee Memorial Tournament, organized as part of the 25th anniversary celebrations of the Peshu Students’ Union, aims to promote unity, sportsmanship, and brotherhood through football.
The tournament offers attractive prizes, with the Champion set to receive Rs. 1,00,000, while the Runner-up will be awarded Rs. 70,000.
The tournament will conclude on January 24.
MLA and Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports, Government of Nagaland, and DPDB Chairman, Shamator, S Keoshu Yimkhuing, stated that the brotherhood between the Khiamniungan and Yimkhuing communities dates back to the time of their forefathers. He emphasized that this legacy of unity must be preserved and carried forward by future generations from both sides.
Expressing his deep desire to strengthen this bond, he said his presence was guided by the commitment to uphold and continue this brotherhood, adding that the day marked yet another special moment in carrying forward the shared legacy.
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Highlighting the importance of sports, he noted that sports is a continuous discipline across all seasons, essential for refining talent and building character. He informed that the state government is giving increased importance to football, recognizing its potential to nurture youth and bring opportunities. Urging the players to dream big and keep their vision far-reaching, he remarked that the Khiamniungan people possess inborn sporting talent, even though they often lack advanced facilities.
He further revealed that the department is in the process of preparing a sports reservation policy, aimed at creating greater opportunities for talented sportspersons. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of bringing Thonoknyu into the ruling party, underscoring the need for political alignment to ensure development and representation.
MLA and General Secretary of the Nagaland Football Association, and Chairman of the Governing Body of the Nagaland Super League (NSL), Benei M Lamthiu, in his address said that it was a blessing to witness the completion of 25 years, which also reflects the long-standing relationship with Yimkhuingers. He conveyed a strong message of peace and love, stating that the occasion stands as a testimony to the vision of the pioneers, the result of their good deeds, and the power of unity.
Quoting, “This is the day that the Lord has made,” he emphasized the importance of unity in action in all aspects of life. He expressed his gratitude to PSU for organizing such platforms that encourage and uplift sports enthusiasts. He further clarified that the initiative is not only for Peshu village but for the entire Khiamniungan community.
Addressing the players, he noted that football can become a source of income for those who take the game seriously, and urged all 10 participating teams to uphold discipline, unity, and sportsmanship.
Earlier, he unveiled the Jubilee monolith in the presence of MLA Lamthiu, student and village leaders.
Short speeches were also delivered by VCC, Peshu, Executive Chairman Khiamniungan Tribal Council, and President, Khiamniungan Students’ Union where they shared a common thoughts encouraging the players to take sports further with discipline, and also congratulated the PSU for the 25th milestone.
Earlier, the program was chaired by Tsongtsa Khiamniungan Former Games & Sports Secretary PSU.
