Nigerian Legend RMD Challenges Citizens: Stop Criticizing, Start Fixing!

Veteran actor and filmmaker Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, has issued a powerful call to action, urging Nigerians to transcend mere criticism and actively contribute to resolving the nation's myriad challenges. Speaking at the inaugural Pivot Nigeria thought-leadership conference, themed “The Reputation Dividend: Who Pays for Nigeria’s Perception?”, RMD emphasized that Nigeria's international image is a collective construct, shaped as much by the conduct of its citizens as by the actions of its government.

RMD stressed the dual responsibility of Nigerians: demanding rigorous accountability from their leaders while simultaneously acknowledging their individual roles in burnishing the country's global standing. He articulated, "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.” The veteran actor underscored the imperative for citizens to actively demand superior governance, ensuring that both elected and appointed officials remain transparent and answerable to the populace they represent. He further highlighted that "While we the citizens must demand better governance, we must also recognise how our own conduct shapes Nigeria’s image internationally."

Furthermore, RMD implored Nigerians, particularly the younger generation, to grasp the profound influence their personal actions exert on global perceptions of their homeland. “Just remember who you are. You are an ambassador, not just for yourself, your parents or your school, but ultimately for your country,” he asserted. To illustrate the positive impact of individual and collective Nigerian efforts, RMD cited the remarkable global ascendancy of Nollywood and Afrobeats, alongside the significant achievements of renowned entrepreneurs such as Aliko Dangote, as exemplars of contributions that uplift the nation's reputation and global standing.

However, Mofe-Damijo cautioned against expecting instant transformations, advocating instead for sustained and diligent efforts in the journey to improve Nigeria's image. He wisely stated, “We are a country, we’re a work in progress, and we must continue just doing the work.” This sentiment reinforces the idea that national progress is an ongoing, evolutionary process.

Adding to the discourse, Victoria Uwadoka, the convener of Pivot Nigeria and Lead Consultant at HighStakes PR Professionals, articulated reputation as an indispensable national asset demanding shared ownership. “Reputation is actually very, very critical for us as citizens and as a nation. The media has a responsibility. Individuals have a responsibility. Institutions have a responsibility. Corporate Nigeria has a responsibility. The government has a responsibility,” Uwadoka enumerated. She passionately called for more balanced media reporting, urging a comprehensive portrayal that acknowledges both the persistent challenges and the commendable positive developments emanating from within Nigeria. Uwadoka concluded by asserting that "Tell the truth about where we are. Be balanced. There’s not only bad about us, but there’s also good as well. However, the government must create an enabling environment through sound policies, infrastructure and strong institutions.”

The maiden edition of the Pivot Nigeria conference, which served as a vital platform for these discussions, was held at the prestigious MUSON Centre in Lagos. The event successfully gathered key stakeholders from the creative, media, and communications sectors. Its central focus was to critically examine Nigeria’s global reputation and its far-reaching implications for its citizens, businesses, and the nation's capacity to attract and capitalize on international opportunities.