Veteran actor and filmmaker Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, has urged Nigerians to move beyond merely criticising the country and actively contribute to solving its challenges.
RMD spoke on Tuesday at the innagural edition of Pivot Nigeria, a thought-leadership conference themed “The Reputation Dividend: Who Pays for Nigeria’s Perception?”
RMD acknowledged that Nigeria faces serious problems but urged citizens to pair criticism with constructive action. He said Nigerians must demand better governance while also recognising that their conduct contributes to the country’s international image.
“We are too quick to condemn us. There are problems, but we need to fix them. Don’t stand and just criticise and then proffer no solution,” he said.
He added that citizens must hold leaders accountable, noting that effective scrutiny would remind public officials of their responsibility to the people they represent.
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RMD highlighted the worldwide influence of Nollywood and Afrobeats, alongside the achievements of business leaders like Aliko Dangote, as signs that Nigerians are strengthening their global reputation. However, he noted that such progress would take time.
Also speaking at the conference, the convener and Lead Consultant at HighStakes PR Professionals, Victoria Uwadoka, said reputation must be treated as a critical national asset.
RMD stressed that reputation is crucial to both Nigerians and the nation, noting that the media, individuals, institutions, businesses and the government all have roles to play. He urged stakeholders to present a balanced and truthful account of Nigeria, while calling on the government to provide an enabling environment through sound policies, infrastructure and strong institutions.
The 2026 Pivot Nigeria conference, held at the MUSON Centre in Lagos, brought together stakeholders from the creative, media and communications industries to discuss how Nigeria’s reputation influences its citizens, businesses and national opportunities.
