RMD urges citizens to stop condemning Nigeria

Veteran Nigerian actor and filmmaker Richard Mofe-Damijo, known as RMD, has called on Nigerians to stop criticizing their country and instead focus on finding solutions to its problems. Speaking at the opening of Pivot Nigeria, a thought-leadership conference themed "The Reputation Dividend: Who Pays for Nigeria’s Perception?", RMD emphasized that every citizen is affected by how Nigeria is viewed abroad.

He urged citizens not to just criticize, but to also propose solutions. RMD highlighted the global success of Nollywood, Afrobeats, and entrepreneurs like Aliko Dangote as evidence of the reputation capital being built within the country, but cautioned that significant change requires continuous effort. Victoria Uwadoka, a lead consultant at HighStakes PR Professionals, also spoke at the event, stressing that reputation is a critical national asset.

She pointed out the responsibility of various parties, including the media, individuals, institutions, corporate Nigeria, and the government, in promoting a balanced and truthful narrative about Nigeria's strengths and weaknesses. The 2026 Pivot Nigeria conference, held at the MUSON Centre in Lagos, gathered professionals from various sectors to discuss how Nigeria's reputation influences citizens, businesses, and national opportunities.