Advisor for Municipal Affairs, Zhaleo Rio, on Saturday inaugurated the Naga Colony Gate, praising the colony leadership for their collective effort and emphasising that the structure stands as “a testament to Naga identity, tradition and oneness.”

Rio commended Chairman Zasivikho Zakiesato and the residents of Naga Colony for their initiative, noting that such community-driven projects reflect unity among people from various tribes and backgrounds. “The Unity Stone and the new gate are documents of your collective harmony,” he said, adding that Naga settlements have always symbolised identity through their village or colony gates.

Sharing the stage with fellow Advisor, Tovihoto Ayemi, Rio expressed appreciation for his colleague, describing him as “a fine gentleman who stands for equal justice and the rights of the Naga people,” despite belonging to a different political party.

The Advisor stressed that Dimapur, Chümoukedima and Niuland share similar challenges and must work together as “one family” for progress. “Development is possible only where there is unity and peace,” he said, urging citizens to complement government efforts with civic responsibility.

Rio addressed public criticism over road conditions, noting that work is underway but challenges persist due to unpredictable weather and heavy rainfall. While constructive criticism is welcome, he said, “baseless condemnation brings no benefit to society.”

Terming Nagaland one of the “worst performing states” in census reporting, Rio said inaccurate population figures have created discrepancies in literacy, health and school enrolment data. He urged citizens to provide correct information during the next census. “If wrong information is given, we will be the ones suffering later,” he cautioned.

Rio emphasised that maintaining clean surroundings is a shared responsibility. While the government works on drainage and waste management, he said public cooperation is crucial. “If drains are blocked with garbage, roads will inevitably get damaged,” he warned, adding that Nagaland could become one of India’s cleanest states with collective effort.

He encouraged colonies to prepare local development plans and assured that he and Advisor Tovihoto will work together to arrange funds and push developmental works forward.

Rio extended greetings on behalf of the government and reiterated his commitment, “We promise to work together for development. Rights come with duties, and civic sense is essential for a healthy environment.”

Tovihoto Ayemi unveils ‘Unity Stone’

Advisor for Tribal Affairs, H Tovihoto Ayemi, who unveiled the Unity Stone of the Nagas at Naga Colony, described it as a historic step toward restoring unity among Naga tribes and strengthening harmony in Dimapur’s cosmopolitan society.

Speaking on the occasion Ayemi said the monument carries deep meaning at a time when the Naga people have become divided due to “clanism, tribalism and factionalism” after centuries of co-existence.

“When we look at this Unity Stone, we see around 20 tribes inscribed on it. We Nagas have lived together for centuries, but with time, division crept in and we drifted apart. Today, with this stone, we begin the journey of coming together again as one Naga,” he said.

Ayemi highlighted that Dimapur—with its diverse tribes, communities, and federations under the Naga Council Dimapur—remains the only place in Nagaland where “20 or 21 tribes stand together under one umbrella.”

“Dimapur is a cosmopolitan city where all tribes co-exist. If unity must begin anywhere, it must begin here. We must set an example for all Nagas,” he said, urging tribal bodies, GB unions and chairman federations to continue working with a shared vision.

Ayemi also stressed that unity must go beyond symbolism. “There has to be unity of heart, unity of purpose, and unity of action,” he said. Respect for each tribe’s culture is important, he stated, but Nagas must also rediscover a shared goal and act towards it collectively.

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Ayemi praised Naga Colony Chairman, Zasivikho Zakisato for leading the initiative, saying the Unity Stone and gate stand as symbols of identity and resilience. “The stone is significant—not just symbolic. We keep stones because they endure,” he remarked.

He also expressed gratitude to Advisor Zhaleo Rio, describing their long political association and shared vision for Dimapur’s development.

Speaking on municipal governance, Ayemi said the revival of the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) after nearly two decades has raised public expectations. He assured that the government and elected members will work together to bring visible change.

“If only one authority can ensure smooth functioning of the DMC, Dimapur will definitely see a facelift,” he said, adding that both he and Advisor Zhaleo are committed to supporting the council.

Concluding his address, Ayemi expressed optimism that long-pending Naga issues will be resolved soon and urged all communities to strengthen brotherhood and understanding.

“With unity, we can move forward as one Naga. Let us build this relationship, this understanding and take our people forward,” he said.

In his welcome address, Naga Colony Chairman, Zasivikho Zakiesato underscored the significance of unity, identity, and collective progress for the community.

Welcoming the dignitaries, he expressed deep appreciation for the presence of Special Guest, Zhaleo Rio, stating that his leadership and vision for urban development “continue to inspire communities across Nagaland.” He said Rio’s consent to inaugurate the gate elevated the occasion, marking it as a milestone for the colony.

He also acknowledged the Guest of Honor, H Tovihoto Ayemi, whose dedication to public welfare and advocacy for unity, “embody the very message inscribed in the unity stone unveiled today.”

Calling the event a “historic and momentous occasion,” Zakiesato emphasized that the welcome gate is not just a physical structure but a symbol of identity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the people of Naga Colony.

“Today is not merely the unveiling of a structure; it is the unveiling of a vision,” he said, adding that the gate and the unity stone together reflect the community’s shared heritage and its aspiration to move forward in peace, harmony, and brotherhood.