Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff and Chairman of the 13th John Evans Atta Mills Commemorative Lecture, has implored Ghanaian youth to emulate the exemplary leadership ideals of the revered statesman.

At a lecture held in Accra, Debrah extolled Mills' remarkable legacy as a moral lodestar that can guide the country's democratic trajectory.

In fact, with unwavering conviction, Debrah exhorted the youth to draw valuable lessons from Mills' illustrious life, marked by unrelenting integrity, profound humility, and unshakeable discipline.

"His story must not be remembered as nostalgia," Debrah emphasized. "It must be understood as a guidepost for leadership grounded in truth, service, and respect for institutions, illuminating the path for future generations of leaders."

Debrah lauded Mills' distinctive leadership style, highlighting his ability to wield power with calmness, modesty, and profound respect for all. "Professor Mills showed that leadership does not have to be loud to be effective," he noted.

"He led by example, speaking softly, yet his words carried weight because they were grounded in conviction and principle, inspiring a nation to strive for excellence."

In a clarion call to the youth, Debrah urged them to transcend partisan interests and personal ambitions, instead cultivating the qualities necessary to lead with integrity, vision, and a deep respect for democratic values.

"As we commemorate his life today," he said, "we must also ignite a national consciousness among our youth, not to simply inherit positions of power, but to earn the trust of the people by walking the path of honesty, humility, and human dignity, thereby forging a brighter future for Ghana."

The lecture, aptly themed "The Man, The Teacher, and The President," served as a fitting tribute to Mills' enduring legacy, underscoring his pivotal role in shaping Ghana's democracy and nurturing a culture of tolerance, justice, and responsible leadership.

Undoubtedly, as Ghana marks 13 years since his passing, Mr. Debrah's words serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of leadership rooted in integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to the well-being of all Ghanaians.

Story by Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy