Renowned actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, widely known as RMD, recently opened up about the significant influences in his life during an event where he emphasized the values instilled in him by his mother and prominent mentors. RMD highlighted the pivotal role his mother played in shaping his character and instilling a sense of responsibility.

In his speech, Mofe-Damijo recounted his close bond with his mother, stating that she often reminded him of his roots and the importance of representing his family and community. "Don’t forget whose child you are," he recalled her saying, a mantra that has guided him throughout his life. He attributed his strong sense of discipline and responsibility to her teachings, which have been instrumental in his personal and professional journey.

RMD also acknowledged the impact of influential figures in his career, particularly literary icons Wole Soyinka and J.P. Clark. He noted that his experiences with them have reinforced his commitment to punctuality and discipline. "Timeliness is important to me. If someone tells you to be somewhere at 8 o’clock, you should get there by 7:30," he advised, reflecting the standards set by his mentors.

His time as a resident actor at the J.K. Randle Centre in 1984 introduced him to the discipline exemplified by Clark, while his work with Soyinka as a director further cemented these values. RMD recalled how Soyinka’s punctuality set a standard for him, stating that if a meeting was scheduled for 4 PM, being there at 3:30 PM was merely a reflection of respect for the process.

Beyond personal discipline, Mofe-Damijo touched on his eight years of service in government, where he witnessed the potential for positive change within the system. He expressed a desire to combat the negative influences that can pervade governance, emphasizing that good individuals must remain grounded in their values to effect real change. He shared a poignant lesson learned from his time in public service: "If you can’t fight the system, get out and go build somewhere else."

RMD’s reflections serve as a reminder of the importance of mentorship and the values passed down through generations. As he continues to inspire others in the entertainment industry and beyond, his commitment to discipline and responsibility remains a guiding principle in his life and career.