Veteran Nigerian actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, has credited his upbringing and professional experiences with shaping his approach to discipline, punctuality and responsibility.

Speaking at a recent event, the actor recalled the influence of his mother, who repeatedly reminded him to remain conscious of his background and the people and institutions he represented.

According to RMD, the lesson became a guiding principle throughout his career, particularly as he took on roles that placed him in the public eye.

He also recalled working with literary figures Wole Soyinka and J.P. Clark, saying their professional standards strengthened his commitment to punctuality.

RMD said his experience with Soyinka left a lasting impression, recalling that the Nobel laureate would arrive ahead of scheduled appointments. He said this taught him that arriving early was part of being prepared and showing respect for other people’s time.

The actor also mentioned his encounter with J.P. Clark in 1984, when he worked as a resident actor at the J.K. Randle Centre.

Reflecting on his years in public service, RMD said the experience showed him that government could be used to create positive change, but warned that individuals entering the system needed strong personal values.

He said his time in government also taught him that people who are unable to change an unhealthy system may need to leave and create positive change elsewhere.

RMD added that he tries to conduct himself properly because people represent more than themselves at different stages of their lives.

He said he hopes the people he encounters can also learn from the values he has tried to uphold throughout his career.