The Minister for Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, has urged young people to strive for excellence in every aspect of their lives, emphasising that it is never too late to begin the journey towards greatness.

Speaking at the International Youth Empowerment Summit (IYES) at the UPSA auditorium on Thursday, March 13, he called on the youth to embrace leadership, innovation, and responsibility as they work towards shaping the future of Ghana and Africa.

“The destiny of Ghana—and Africa—rests in our hands,” Dr Boamah declared, encouraging the youth to take charge of their future by wielding influence responsibly.

He stressed that leadership is not about titles but about the impact one creates.

“Lead with character and integrity. True leadership is built on trust and a commitment to making a difference,” he stated.

He urged young people to be principled in their actions and to serve as role models in their communities.

Dr Boamah also highlighted the importance of innovation in driving progress, reminding the audience that many of today’s groundbreaking technological advancements were pioneered by young minds.

“Innovate relentlessly,” he advised. “Every major technological advancement today was built by young minds. We must encourage creativity and entrepreneurship to develop solutions for our unique challenges.”

He further encouraged the youth to seek knowledge, adapt to change, and contribute to technological and economic growth.

Additionally, he underscored the significance of community engagement and collaboration. “Influence does not always require a microphone or a stage,” he said.

“Sometimes, it is in small acts—mentoring a young child, cleaning our environment, or standing against injustice.”

He also called for unity among youth groups, emphasising that no single individual can bring about national or continental transformation alone.

“We need partnerships—across industries, cultures, and nations—to drive real, lasting impact. Young people should network, learn from each other, and build movements that can stand the test of time,” he added.

In his closing remarks, Dr Boamah encouraged the youth to balance influence with responsibility, cultivate love, and never give up on their pursuit of excellence.

“It is never too late to start pursuing excellence,” he affirmed.

“Regardless of your background or circumstances, you can always take the first step towards achieving greatness.”

His words served as a powerful call to action, inspiring young people to remain determined in their quest for success and positive change.