29-year-old Bob Lawson Yankey installed as new Chief of Salman

History was made in the Ellembelle District on Thursday, June 11, 2026, as 29-year-old Bob Lawson Yankey was installed as the new Chief of Salman with the stool name Nana Agyaneaka III.

Born on 21st June, 1997, Nana Agyaneaka III is now the youngest Chief of Salman and also the youngest chief in the Eastern Nzema Traditional Council.

The Salman stool became vacant following the destoolment of Nana Kwamena Bentum II.

After months of confinement, Nana Agyaneaka III was outdoored through the principal streets of Salman amidst brass band music, drawing hundreds of residents, well-wishers, and traditional leaders.

He was later sworn-in by the Chief of Ampain, Nana Nyameke Fofole, who represented the Eastern Nzema Traditional Council.

The ceremony was described as the most successful and peaceful in Salman’s history, with residents and media noting the absence of armed police personnel — a sign of unity and acceptance.

Addressing his people at the Salman community center, Nana Agyaneaka III expressed gratitude to the Kingmakers for reposing trust in him to lead.

“I will serve with diligence and not be an overlord to my people,” he pledged.

He promised to liaise with government and relevant stakeholders to tackle key infrastructure challenges confronting the community, especially the main road and the health facility.

On employment, the young chief said he will lobby the mining company operating in the area to create job opportunities for the youth of Salman.

Residents who spoke to the media lamented that Salman community has been denied basic social amenities despite having a mining company operating in the area.

They noted the lack of a health facility, a deplorable road network linking to the community which they described as an “eyesore”, and limited employment opportunities.

According to them, the mining company in the area has largely denied the youth direct employment opportunities, though it has provided slots for national service and internship placements.

Despite these challenges, the residents expressed happiness over the installation of the new Chief, with many believing that Nana Agyaneaka III’s youthful energy and leadership will bring change and development to Salman.

A resident of Salman who spoke to the media after the event also shared words of counsel for the new chief:

“Leadership is about serving all people fairly and honestly. A good chief is remembered not for power, but for justice, compassion, and the positive change they bring to their people. May your leadership bring progress, harmony, and hope to the entire community.”

The resident added that as Nana Agyaneaka III takes on this important responsibility, he must learn from the mistakes of the past and work to build trust within the community.

According to him, the Chief should listen to everyone, not just a few people, and treat all members of the community with respect and fairness, regardless of family, status, or personal relationship.

He also urged transparency in decision-making and called on the Chief to always put the needs of the community first while encouraging unity, peace, and cooperation among the people.

He emphasized that leadership must be guided by humility, integrity, and hard work.

“Some of us are afar but that should not prevent us from following events in our beloved Salman Community. When challenges arise, seek wisdom from elders, community members, and trusted advisors,” he advised.

Nana Agyaneaka III’s enstoolment at 29 marks a new chapter for Salman as the community looks to youthful leadership for development, unity, and progress.

Obahema Nda Kpanyi II was also installed as the Queen Mother of Salman on the same day.

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