Veteran Nigerian actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, has revealed how working with literary icon and Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka helped shape his attitude towards punctuality, discipline and responsibility.
Speaking at a recent event, RMD said his approach to time was influenced by several people who played important roles in his personal and professional development, including Soyinka and the late playwright J.P. Clark.
The actor said his mother also played a major role in shaping his values while he was growing up. According to him, she repeatedly reminded him of his background and the responsibility that comes with representing his family and other institutions he belongs to.
RMD explained that he learned to arrive well ahead of scheduled appointments. He said his personal rule is to be at a venue about 30 minutes before the agreed time so that he is prepared when the other person arrives.
He recalled his experience with Soyinka, whom he encountered professionally in the 1980s while working in theatre. RMD said Soyinka's own commitment to punctuality left a lasting impression on him.
According to the actor, Soyinka could announce a meeting for 4pm and still be at the venue before the appointed time. RMD said observing that level of discipline influenced the way he approaches his own commitments.
RMD had previously shared another account of how punctuality helped him secure a role in one of Soyinka's stage productions. He recalled travelling from Lagos to Abeokuta for an audition and arriving about two hours before the scheduled 4pm meeting. Soyinka later told him that his early arrival had impressed him.
The actor said the lessons he learned from people he worked with have extended beyond acting. He stressed that people often represent something larger than themselves, whether it is their family, organisation, profession or country.
RMD also reflected on his experience in public service, saying his eight years in government taught him that institutions can have significant potential to create positive change, but that individuals must remain guided by strong personal values.
He encouraged people, particularly those entering the entertainment industry, to take discipline, responsibility and consistency seriously, saying these qualities can have a lasting impact on both their careers and personal lives.