RMD To Nigerians: Stop Criticising, Help Fix Nigeria’s Problems

Veteran actor and filmmaker, Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, has called on Nigerians to move beyond criticising the country and contribute actively to solving its challenges.

RMD made the call on Tuesday at the maiden edition of Pivot Nigeria, a thought-leadership conference held under the theme, “The Reputation Dividend: Who Pays for Nigeria’s Perception?”

The actor said the image of Nigeria abroad was shaped not only by the government but also by the actions and conduct of its citizens.

According to him, Nigerians should demand accountability from their leaders while recognising their individual responsibilities in shaping the country’s international reputation.

“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.

RMD noted that citizens had a responsibility to demand better governance and ensure that elected and appointed leaders remained accountable to the people.

“While we the citizens must demand better governance, we must also recognise how our own conduct shapes Nigeria’s image internationally,” he said.

He added, “We don’t hold leadership accountable enough. If we do, then when they come in there, they know that they are responsible for the people that they represent.”

The veteran actor further urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to understand that their actions could influence how the country is viewed globally.

“Just remember who you are. You are an ambassador, not just for yourself, your parents or your school, but ultimately for your country,” RMD said.

He cited the international growth of Nollywood and Afrobeats, alongside the achievements of Nigerian entrepreneurs such as Aliko Dangote, as examples of Nigerians contributing to the country’s reputation and global standing.

However, RMD cautioned that improving Nigeria’s image would require sustained efforts rather than expecting immediate results.

“We are a country, we’re a work in progress, and we must continue just doing the work,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, the convener and Lead Consultant at HighStakes PR Professionals, Victoria Uwadoka, described reputation as an important national asset that required collective responsibility.

“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,” she said.

Uwadoka called for balanced reporting and greater attention to both the challenges confronting Nigeria and the positive developments emerging from the country.

“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,” she added.

The 2026 edition of Pivot Nigeria was held at the MUSON Centre in Lagos and brought together stakeholders from the creative, media and communications sectors.

The conference focused on Nigeria’s global reputation and its implications for citizens, businesses and the country’s ability to attract opportunities.