MLA & Advisor Tovihoto Ayemi addresses the gathering during the general meeting of the SOUD held at Western Sümi Hoho ki, Chekiye village on February 14.
Dimapur, February 14 (MExN): The Sümi Officers' Union Dimapur (SOUD) convened a General Meeting-cum-Baghi Hoho at Lhomithi Hall, Western Sümi Hoho ki, Chekiye Village, Dimapur on February 14.
MLA and Advisor to Tribal Affairs and Election, Government of Nagaland, H Tovihoto Ayemi, graced the event as Special Guest. In his address, Ayemi urged SOUD to rescue unemployed youth through strategic roadmaps, nurture private-sector talent, and drive society via seminars, training, and initiatives.
Emphasising agriculture for sustainable livelihoods, he called on officers to lead, tap resources, unite for advancement, and build ties with other Naga communities, maintaining that the Naga community prospers if the Sümi community prospers.
Ayemi further underlined the need for inter-community alliances among Nagas for collective prosperity, stating, "the prosperity of the Sümi community augurs the prosperity of the Naga polity.”
The proceedings opened with an invocation by Israel G Xuivi, NPS, followed by the General Secretary's report from Kitoho Michael Swu and the Finance Secretary's report from Sukhai Zhimomi.
Convenor of the Resolution Committee, Karen Yepthomi, presented key resolutions, which the house unanimously adopted. The resolutions included: continuing sponsorship of the meritorious scholarship programme initiated by Western Sümi Totimi Hoho for 10 aspirants at the upcoming coaching centre session.
It also resolved to provide assistance to the Sümi Literature Board (SLB) for publishing 60 books for the four-year undergraduate course; to endorse the drafting of a constitution for the Sümi Officers Union Nagaland; and to strengthen federating units in Zunheboto, Kohima, and Dimapur for the Sümi community's benefit.
During the session, SOUD President Y Ruth Muru delivered the welcome and presidential address. Muru reminded attendees that every destiny is divinely designed, emphasizing officers' accountability to society due to their influential positions.
Urging integrity to lead the Sümi community and contribute to Naga society, she noted her privilege in serving as President since February 2024—a responsibility she cherishes as a woman. Likewise, she thanked her executives for their support and called on members to uphold SOUD's legacy.
At the same time, she highlighted the need to curb extravagant lifestyles at public functions, contrasting them with the generosity and rich traditions of Sümi forefathers. In today's context, she advocated limiting excessive expenditures to purposeful, impactful events.
Vikato Shikhu, General Secretary of Western Sümi Hoho, extended greetings, honoring SOUD as a frontal organization and key stakeholder. He urged the Western Sümi to act as ambassadors of peace and unity among Naga communities, uniting responsibly for progress.
Hokali V Chishi, President of Western Sümi Totimi Hoho (WSTH), in her address, informed that the first batch of scholarship aspirants had commenced coaching with SOUD's support. She sought continued backing for the second batch and thanked SOUD for mentorship.
Vihoshe Mürü, Chairman of the Sümi Literature Board (SLB), described SOUD as vital stakeholders at a crossroads for the Sümi community. He stressed deliberating pressing issues through organized platforms and initiatives. Mürü updated that SLB books for degree-level Sütsa are ready for publication, with modern compositions aligning current needs.
Newly elected President L Atopu Sumi, NPS, expressed gratitude to the search committee and called for collective support, advice, and guidance to advance the union and community.
The new 2026-27 executive tenure will be led by President L Atopu Sumi, NPS, and General Secretary Dr Ithika C Swu, alongside other office bearers.
