Veteran actor and filmmaker Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, has called on Nigerians to refrain from relentless criticism of the nation and instead contribute constructive solutions, warning that every citizen bears the cost of how Nigeria is viewed internationally.
Speaking on Tuesday at the MUSON Centre in Lagos during the maiden edition of Pivot Nigeria, a thought-leadership conference examining how the nation’s image affects its citizens, businesses, and economic prospects, RMD urged the public to act as responsible representatives of the country.
“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 veteran actor highlighted the global acclaim of Nollywood and Afrobeats, alongside the achievements of industrial leaders such as Aliko Dangote, as evidence that Nigerians are actively cultivating positive brand equity from within, though he cautioned that lasting nation-building takes time.
“We are a country, we’re a work in progress, and we must continue just doing the work,” RMD added.
He argued that while citizens must demand better governance, they must also acknowledge how their own actions and public discourse shape perceptions abroad. He stressed that citizens are often too eager to condemn the country without offering solutions, adding that the public fails to hold political leadership sufficiently accountable to the people they serve.