Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on Friday, 23 January 2025, joined residents of Bakeloko Chiefdom in Port Loko District to welcome the newly installed Paramount Chief, PC Adikaili Mellah (OPAPA) III. He described the occasion as a powerful symbol of unity, peace, and renewed hope for development in the chiefdom.
Addressing community members, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders, the Vice President commended the people of Bakeloko and the wider Port Loko District for their peaceful conduct and active participation throughout the chieftaincy process.
He noted that the installation of a young and progressive Paramount Chief presents a fresh opportunity to strengthen grassroots leadership and accelerate socio-economic development across the chiefdom.
Vice President Juldeh Jalloh highlighted key government investments already underway in the district, including the construction of new public offices, a girls’ school, health facilities, and other social infrastructure that previously did not exist in the area.
He assured residents that additional development projects would soon be rolled out, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to improving livelihoods and expanding opportunities for local communities.
Emphasizing the critical role of traditional leaders in national development, the Vice President stressed that chiefs are expected to serve the interests of their people rather than political agendas.
He pledged to work closely with Paramount Chief Mellah, local authorities, and development partners to ensure that Bakeloko Chiefdom benefits from inclusive and sustainable development.
The homecoming ceremony concluded with a message of unity and cooperation, as the Vice President praised Port Loko District for maintaining peace during the chieftaincy elections.
He congratulated the newly installed Paramount Chief and urged all stakeholders to work together as one family to promote peace, progress, and lasting development in Bakeloko Chiefdom.