A long-standing dream of the people of Shamator Town turned into reality on January 24 with the inauguration of a newly paved link road, marking a historic breakthrough in connectivity and development for the region. The project brings to an end decades of physical hardship and geographical isolation, for farmers and families who, for generations, were forced to carry harvests and firewood on their backs due to the absence of motorable access.
The long-cherished dream became a reality through the initiative of the Link Road Construction Committee, which approached philanthropist, Yanba Showuba for support. Responding immediately and magnanimously, Showuba provided heavy machinery to pave over five kilometres of road, transforming mobility and daily life for the people. The road now stands as a symbol of community resilience and self-driven development.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by the Deputy Commissioner of Shamator, Shri Chuba Temjen, NCS, who attended as Chief Guest and officially named the stretch the “Yanba Showuba Road.” Addressing the gathering, the DC highlighted the transformative power of the project, stating that a road is not merely a path of stone and earth but a bridge that builds lasting relationships between neighbouring communities.
He noted that the Naga people are deeply rooted in agriculture, producing organic crops in high demand globally, and emphasized that replacing the traditional “head-carry culture” with vehicular access would not only ease the burden on farmers but also create opportunities for trade and economic growth. Commending the people of Shamator, he said he was heartened to see a community that does not wait solely for government intervention but takes initiative to shape its own future, adding that the District Administration would continue to support such unified efforts for the upliftment of Shamator.
In his address, Yanba Showuba underscored the importance of community-led development. He described the project as historic, noting that it was the first time in Shamator district that a committee had executed a project of such magnitude without government funding. He said he was moved by the committee’s vision to eliminate the back-breaking labour of the people and replace it with the ease of wheels.
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Expressing his commitment to public welfare, Showuba said his support would always be available for initiatives that benefit Shamator, the ENPO region, and the Naga people at large. He urged the community to move forward together, emphasizing unity as the foundation of progress. He encouraged the Committee to reach out without hesitation whenever he can render his help. “We are a community that must move forward together,” he stressed.
Reflecting on the district’s journey since 1955, Yanba Showuba further highlighted the importance of progress through cooperation, stating: “While we have lacked in infrastructure and education in the past, the Government of Nagaland, under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, is now bringing significant development to our state.” However, he said the government cannot do it alone; it requires people’s cooperation.
As a senior advisor to the YTC, he urged the people to maintain peace and good relationships with the neighbours. “We must not rely solely on tribal councils or the state government, but work collectively to ensure Shamator becomes a fully developed district with the medical and educational facilities we deserve as a basic human right. This is the government’s vision, and it is my prayer for our people.”
The Road Construction Committee, represented by R Chuba, chairman and Yankiuba, secretary, extended gratitude to Yanba Showuba for his selfless contribution and to the District Administration for their unwavering encouragement.
