‘You’re An Ambassador For Nigeria’ — RMD Charges Nigerians

Kehinde Adeleye

Veteran actor and filmmaker, Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, has urged Nigerians to stop merely condemning the country and instead contribute ideas and solutions to the challenges confronting the nation.

RMD spoke on Tuesday at the maiden edition of Pivot Nigeria, a thought leadership conference themed, “The Reputation Dividend: Who Pays for Nigeria’s Perception?”, held at the MUSON Centre in Lagos.

The veteran actor said Nigerians have a responsibility to demand better governance while also recognising that their individual conduct contributes to the way the country is perceived internationally.

“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,” RMD said.

He stressed the need for citizens to hold leaders accountable, noting that elected and appointed officials should understand the responsibilities attached to representing the people.

“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,” he said.

RMD also reminded Nigerians that their actions can influence the country’s image beyond its borders.

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

The actor pointed to the global growth of Nollywood and Afrobeats, as well as the achievements of Nigerian entrepreneurs such as Aliko Dangote, as examples of Nigerians contributing to the country’s reputation and global standing.

However, he cautioned that improving Nigeria’s image would require sustained efforts rather than an overnight transformation.

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

Also speaking at the conference, the convener and Lead Consultant at HighStakes PR Professionals, Victoria Uwadoka, described reputation as an important national asset requiring the collective responsibility of citizens, the media, institutions, businesses and government.

“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 said.

She urged Nigerians and institutions to present a balanced picture of the country while acknowledging existing challenges.

“Tell the truth about where we are. Be balanced. There’s not only bad about us, but there’s also good as well,” she said.

Uwadoka also called on the government to create an enabling environment through sound policies, infrastructure and strong institutions.

The 2026 Pivot Nigeria conference brought together stakeholders from the creative, media and communications sectors to discuss how Nigeria’s reputation affects citizens, businesses and opportunities available to the country globally.