Julius Debrah Urges University of Offa Graduates to Embrace Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Ghana’s Chief of Staff, Dr Julius Debrah, has urged graduates of the University of Offa in Kwara State, Nigeria, to embrace entrepreneurship, innovation and their responsibility in shaping Africa’s economic future.

Dr Debrah delivered the message while representing President John Dramani Mahama at the university’s maiden convocation ceremony, which celebrated the institution’s pioneer graduating class of 2026.

He encouraged the graduates to look beyond traditional employment opportunities and use their knowledge, creativity and skills to develop innovative solutions to Africa’s economic and social challenges.

His message highlighted the importance of equipping young people with the entrepreneurial mindset needed to create jobs, establish businesses and contribute to sustainable development across the continent.

Dr Debrah also emphasised the importance of strengthening relations between Ghana and Nigeria, particularly through education, institutional partnerships and youth development.

The participation of Ghana’s presidential representative at the ceremony underscored the potential for closer cooperation between the two countries in advancing educational opportunities and building connections among young African professionals.

Ghana and Nigeria share longstanding political, economic and cultural ties, with collaboration in education and skills development offering opportunities to deepen those relations.

The maiden convocation marked an important milestone for the University of Offa as it celebrated the achievements of its pioneer class of 2026.

Dr Debrah congratulated the graduates and the wider university community, recognising the significance of the occasion for the institution’s development.

The ceremony also provided an opportunity to encourage the graduating students to apply their education in ways that support innovation, entrepreneurship and Africa’s long-term economic transformation.

His message reinforced the need for African institutions and young professionals to play an active role in building a more prosperous continent through knowledge, creativity and stronger regional partnerships.