Richard Mofe-Damijo

Richard Evans Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, was born on July 6, 1961, in Aladja, Udu Kingdom, in present-day Delta State, Nigeria. He grew up in a typical Niger Delta environment, surrounded by rich cultural traditions that would later influence his artistic depth and storytelling abilities.

Early Life and Education

From a young age, he showed an interest in the arts, especially performance and writing. His creative curiosity was nurtured during his early schooling years, where he quickly distinguished himself as an expressive and confident child.

He attended Midwest College in Warri, where he had his secondary education. During his teenage years, he became an active member of school drama clubs, often participating in stage plays and cultural performances. This period was formative, as it ignited his passion for acting.

RMD later proceeded to Anglican Grammar School, also in Warri, where his involvement in drama became even stronger. It was here that he honed his performance skills, cultivating discipline and a flair for public presentation. Teachers and peers recognized him early as a talented student with an extraordinary gift for the arts.

Driven by this passion, he gained admission into the University of Benin (UNIBEN) to study Theatre Arts. At UNIBEN, he immersed himself fully in the world of performance, literature, and stagecraft, refining his skills as both an actor and writer. His university years broadened his understanding of drama and equipped him with the technical grounding that set him apart in Nollywood later on.

Not satisfied with just an artistic education, RMD returned to school years later to pursue another academic dream. In the early 2000s, he enrolled at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) to study Law, a degree he successfully completed in 2004. His pursuit of law demonstrated his intellectual curiosity and determination to combine creativity with legal knowledge, which would also serve him well during his years in public service.

Career

Early Career: Journalism and Theatre (1980s – Early 1990s)

After completing his Theatre Arts degree at the University of Benin in the 1980s, Richard Mofe-Damijo began his professional career not immediately in acting but as a writer and journalist. He worked with The Concord newspaper and contributed to popular magazines like Metro and Quality. His work in media sharpened his storytelling skills and exposed him to Nigeria’s cultural and political environment.

His acting career began with stage plays and television drama. He gained his first significant exposure on Nigeria’s popular TV soap opera Ripples (1988–1993), where he played the role of a police inspector. The show, created by Zeb Ejiro, became a household success, and RMD’s character made him one of the most recognizable faces on Nigerian television. This marked his entry into mainstream Nollywood.

Breakthrough and Nollywood Expansion (Mid 1990s – 2000)

By the mid-1990s, Nollywood was experiencing a boom, and RMD became one of its leading men. He featured in films that helped define early Nollywood storytelling. His performances were known for their charisma, depth, and romantic appeal, quickly earning him the nickname of a “ladies’ man” on screen.

In 1997, RMD took a bold step into film production and screenwriting. He wrote and produced Out of Bounds, his debut movie as a producer. The film was critically acclaimed for its originality, and it established him as not just an actor but also a filmmaker with vision. During this period, he starred in numerous films such as Scores to Settle (1998), Diamond Ring (1998), Hostages (1997), and Violated (1996). These movies positioned him as one of Nollywood’s most bankable stars. His reputation grew as he consistently portrayed complex characters, blending romantic leads with morally conflicted men.

By the late 1990s, RMD was already a household name, often described as Nollywood’s first true celebrity actor, admired for both his screen presence and off-screen elegance.

Industry Leadership and Public Recognition (2000 – 2008)

The early 2000s marked RMD’s consolidation as both an actor and a respected figure in Nigerian entertainment. He appeared in high-profile movies such as Keeping Faith (2002), Romance (2003), and Passions (2004). His roles during this time showed his versatility, he could deliver in romance, thriller, and drama with equal mastery.

In 2005, he received the Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) for Best Actor in a Leading Role, cementing his status as one of Africa’s finest actors. He also began to diversify into mentoring and advocating for the growth of Nollywood, encouraging better structures and policies to support the industry.

By the mid-2000s, RMD started balancing his career with a desire to serve in government, leading to his entry into politics.

Political Career: Public Service in Delta State (2008 – 2015)

In 2008, RMD was appointed as Special Adviser on Culture and Tourism to Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State. The following year, he was sworn in as the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, a position he held until 2015.

During this time, he put his acting career largely on hold to focus on governance. His tenure was marked by:

• Efforts to promote Delta State as a hub for cultural tourism in Nigeria.
• Initiatives aimed at using Nollywood and entertainment to empower youths.
• Organizing festivals and tourism projects that highlighted Delta State’s cultural heritage.

Though absent from the screen, his influence in politics reflected his versatility and ability to transition from entertainment to public administration.

Return to Nollywood and Industry Revival (2016 – 2020)

After leaving political office in 2015, RMD made a triumphant return to Nollywood. His re-entry was met with excitement by fans and filmmakers who had missed his presence.

In 2016, he starred in The Wedding Party, one of Nigeria’s highest-grossing films at the time. His role as the father of the bride showcased his elegance and comedic timing, reintroducing him to a younger generation. He also reprised his role in The Wedding Party 2: Destination Dubai (2017).

Other notable appearances included Three Wise Men (2016), Okafor’s Law (2017), and 10 Days in Sun City (2017).

This period solidified RMD’s legacy as not just an “old Nollywood” actor but one who could successfully transition into the new wave of Nigerian cinema dominated by global distribution platforms and modern storytelling.

Global Recognition and Veteran Status (2020 – Present)

From 2020 onward, RMD became more than an actor, he became an icon of African cinema, often celebrated for his longevity, class, and versatility. He appeared in Netflix and streaming-era productions such as King of Boys: The Return of the King (2021), Namaste Wahala (2021), and Fine Wine (2021), where he played a lead role as an older man navigating love.

In 2022, he starred in Palava, another Nollywood blockbuster.

In 2023–2024, he continued featuring in cinema releases and series, balancing acting with mentorship roles for younger talents.

In 2024, he received the AMVCA Industry Merit Award, a lifetime recognition for his contributions to Nollywood.

By 2025, RMD had not only celebrated over four decades in entertainment but also continued producing and starring in projects such as Radio Voice (2025). His ability to remain relevant across generations underscores his adaptability and enduring charisma.

Filmography (Selected Works)

• Ripples (TV series, 1988–1993)
• Checkmate (TV series, early 1990s)
• Violated (1996)
• Out of Bounds (1997)
• Scores to Settle (1998)
• Diamond Ring (1998)
• Hostages (1997)
• The Mayors (1998)
• Freedom (1999)
• Passions (2000)
• Love (2000)
• When God Says Yes (2001)
• Keeping Faith (2002)
• Romance (2003)
• Emotional Pain (2003)
• The Intruder (2003)
• Romantic Attraction (2003)
• The Singles (2003)
• Dangerous Babe (2003)
• 10 Days in Sun City (2017)
• Okafor’s Law (2017)
• The Wedding Party (2016)
• The Wedding Party 2: Destination Dubai (2017)
• Three Wise Men (2016)
• 30 Days in Atlanta (2014, cameo)
• Gold Statue (2019)
• Crossroads (2017)
• Namaste Wahala (2021)
• Fine Wine (2021)
• King of Boys: The Return of the King (Netflix series, 2021)
• Love Is War (2019)
• Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons (2018)
• Merry Men 2: Another Mission (2019)
• Crossroads (2017)
• Palava (2022)
• Radio Voice (2025)

Awards and Recognition 

Awards (Won)

• Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) – Best Actor in a Leading Role (2005)
• Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) – Lifetime Achievement Award (2016)
• Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) – Industry Merit Award (2024)
• City People Movie Awards – Best Actor of the Year (2000s, multiple years)
• Best of Nollywood Awards (BON) – Lifetime Achievement Award (2012)
• Golden Icons Academy Movie Awards (GIAMA) – Special Recognition Award (2013)
• Nollywood Movie Awards – Special Recognition as a Veteran Actor (2012)
• Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) – Special Recognition Award (2015)
• Abuja International Film Festival – Nollywood Icon Award (2018)
• African Film Awards (Afro Hollywood, UK) – Outstanding Achievement in Acting (early 2000s)
• Lifestyle & Entertainment Platforms – Most Stylish Actor Awards (2018, 2019)

Nominations

• Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) – Best Actor in a Drama (2017, for Three Wise Men)
• Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) – Best Supporting Actor in a Movie/TV Series (2018, for The Wedding Party 2)
• City People Movie Awards – Best Actor of the Decade (2014)
• Best of Nollywood Awards (BON) – Best Actor in a Leading Role (English) (2011, 2014)
• Golden Icons Academy Movie Awards (GIAMA) – Best Actor (2014)
• Nollywood Movie Awards – Best Actor in a Leading Role (2012, 2013)
• Nigeria Entertainment Awards (NEA) – Best Actor (Africa) (2015)
• AMAA – Best Supporting Actor (2018, for Crossroads)

Notable Collaborations

Actors & Actresses

• Joke Silva – multiple films including Keeping Faith (2002)
• Ramsey Nouah – Dangerous Twins (2004), Merry Men franchise (2018, 2019)
• Genevieve Nnaji – Keeping Faith (2002), Ripples (early Nollywood years)
• Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde – Hostages (1997), Scores to Settle (1998)
• Ireti Doyle – The Wedding Party (2016), The Wedding Party 2 (2017)
• Desmond Elliot – Holding Hope (2010), Before the Light
• AY Makun (Ayo Makun) – 30 Days in Atlanta (2014), 10 Days in Sun City (2017)
• Falz (Folarin Falana) – Merry Men (2018, 2019)
• Adesua Etomi-Wellington – The Wedding Party (2016), The Wedding Party 2 (2017)
• Sola Sobowale – King of Boys: The Return of the King (2021)
• Dakore Egbuson-Akande – Isoken (2017), Chief Daddy (2018), Chief Daddy 2 (2022)
• Ini Edo – Games Men Play (2006), Palava (2022)
• Nse Ikpe-Etim – Reloaded (2008), Journey to Self (2013)
• Shaffy Bello – Chief Daddy (2018), Chief Daddy 2 (2022)
• Nancy Isime – Shanty Town (2023), Palava (2022)

Directors & Producers

• Zeb Ejiro – Ripples (TV soap, 1988–1993)
• Amaka Igwe – Checkmate (early 1990s TV classic)
• Tade Ogidan – Hostages (1997), Diamond Ring (1998), Dangerous Twins (2004)
• Mildred Okwo – 30 Days (2006), La Femme Anjola (2021)
• Kemi Adetiba – The Wedding Party (2016), King of Boys: The Return of the King (2021)
• Kunle Afolayan – The Figurine (special appearance, 2009), October 1 (cameo)
• Bolanle Austen-Peters – The Bling Lagosians (2019), Collision Course (2021)
• Ebenezer Obey & Tunde Kelani (collaboration era) – for Yoruba cultural-themed works in the 1990s
• Charles Okpaleke (Play Network Studios) – Living in Bondage: Breaking Free (2019, cameo role)

International Collaborations

• Namaste Wahala (2021) – cross-cultural Nollywood/Bollywood film, collaborating with Indian producers and actors.
• Netflix projects like King of Boys: The Return of the King (2021) expanded his reach to global streaming audiences.

Brand Partnerships & Endorsements

• Globacom (Glo) – served as a brand ambassador for the Nigerian telecoms giant, appearing in several campaigns alongside other top celebrities.
• Johnnie Walker – featured in the Joy Will Take You Further campaign as one of the Nigerian ambassadors for the global Scotch whisky brand.
• Guinness Nigeria – collaborated on premium lifestyle promotions in the mid-2010s.
• LG Electronics – represented the brand as a face of premium appliances in West Africa.
• Unilever Nigeria – endorsement deals connected to lifestyle and grooming products.
• Dano Milk (Arla Foods Nigeria) – became an ambassador for the nutrition and dairy brand, promoting healthy living.
• DStv / MultiChoice Nigeria – featured in promotional campaigns as part of Nollywood’s veteran faces.
• Jumia Nigeria – partnered with the e-commerce platform during special promotional seasons.
• Adidas / Nike (fashion & lifestyle collaborations) – RMD has been styled and featured in brand events, leveraging his reputation as one of Nollywood’s most fashionable veterans.
• Real Estate & Luxury Brands – endorsements and ambassadorial roles for premium housing projects and lifestyle estates in Lagos and Abuja.
• Insurance and Financial Services Firms – partnerships with banks and insurance companies promoting trust, reliability, and success.

Philanthropy and Advocacy

• Youth Mentorship & Empowerment – RMD has consistently mentored young actors and filmmakers, both informally and through his workshops and masterclasses. He often emphasizes discipline, professionalism, and continuous learning as keys to success in Nollywood.
• RMD Foundation / Educational Support – he has supported scholarships, school-building projects, and student mentorship programs in Delta State and beyond, particularly during and after his time in government.
• Cultural Promotion & Advocacy – as Delta State’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism (2009–2015), he launched initiatives that promoted Nigerian art, heritage, and tourism. Even after leaving office, he continues to advocate for Nigerian culture as a tool for youth employment and global recognition.
• Health and Wellness Campaigns – RMD has partnered with health organizations and lifestyle brands to promote healthy living, fitness, and longevity. His own fitness lifestyle has inspired advocacy for men’s health and active living among older Nigerians.
• Gender Equality & Women Empowerment – through collaborations in Nollywood and public speaking engagements, he has spoken about the importance of giving women equal opportunities in leadership, film, and business.
• Community Development Projects – as a public figure, he has contributed to infrastructure and development projects in Delta State, supporting initiatives that uplift rural communities.
• Inspirational Speaking & Advocacy – RMD is a regular guest at leadership conferences, TED-style talks, and creative industry summits, where he advocates for integrity, resilience, and positive nation-building.
• Charitable Partnerships – he has partnered with NGOs and corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs, especially in the areas of youth empowerment, education, and poverty alleviation.

Controversy

Despite being widely respected as one of Nollywood’s most disciplined and classy veterans, Richard Mofe-Damijo has not been completely free of controversies. Over the decades, his fame, political involvement, and public image have occasionally placed him at the center of debates and speculations.

1. Alleged Wealth and Political Lifestyle

During his tenure as Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Delta State (2009–2015), RMD was occasionally criticized for living what some considered a flamboyant lifestyle. Rumors spread on social media about his wealth, luxury possessions, and political privileges. In 2012, an online report alleged that RMD had acquired a mansion worth N250 million in Asaba, Delta State. The story quickly gained traction, fueling debates about public officials and accountability.

RMD reacted firmly to the allegations, calling them fabrications. In his own words, he dismissed the reports as a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation:

“It is amazing how people who do not know the truth fabricate lies to mislead the public. I have never bought any house worth N250 million in my life. These stories are false and baseless.”

He stressed that his career, political service, and personal values were built on integrity, and warned against the dangers of unverified gossip damaging public figures.

2. Social Media Age & Online Criticism

As RMD became active on Instagram and Twitter, some critics began to label him as being “too stylish” or “obsessed with fashion” for a man in his sixties. His frequent posting of well-tailored suits, luxury fashion, and fitness pictures drew mixed reactions. While many praised him as the “most stylish granddad in Nollywood,” others accused him of “showing off.”

He responded diplomatically, explaining that his style was not about arrogance but about self-expression and inspiring men of his generation. In a post, he wrote:

“I dress well not to show off, but to remind men my age that life doesn’t stop at 60. Ageing is inevitable, but looking old is a choice.”

This statement was widely shared and turned the criticism into a motivational quote, reinforcing his status as a role model.

3. Marital Speculations

RMD’s personal life has also been the subject of speculation. After the death of his first wife, journalist and publisher May Ellen Ezekiel (MEE) in 1996, tabloids often linked him with various actresses before his eventual marriage to Jumobi Adegbesan, a former TV presenter. Over the years, rumors of marital troubles occasionally surfaced online.

RMD rarely engages directly with gossip, but he once hinted in an interview that the strength of his marriage was in privacy:

“I don’t owe the public details of my family life. What matters is that I know my truth, my wife knows her truth, and my children know their truth.”

This firm but dignified stance silenced many speculations and reinforced his preference to shield his family from Nollywood’s spotlight.

4. Political Criticism

Like many entertainers who enter politics, RMD also faced scrutiny about his effectiveness in office. Some critics argued that his tenure as Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Delta State did not deliver as much as expected. Supporters, however, countered that he helped put Delta State on Nigeria’s cultural map and that his role inspired more entertainers to consider governance.

When asked about balancing politics with entertainment, RMD stated:

“Public service is not glamour; it is sacrifice. It is not about applause but about responsibility.”

This showed his awareness of the challenges of crossing from stardom into governance.

Public Perception

Overall, while RMD has had his fair share of controversies, he has managed to maintain a dignified public image. His tactful responses, avoidance of unnecessary confrontations, and use of style and wisdom have helped him turn criticisms into life lessons for both fans and fellow celebrities.

Personal Life

Richard Mofe-Damijo’s personal life has been as eventful as his career, marked by love, loss, resilience, and family devotion. Despite the glamour of his public persona, he has often emphasized that his greatest achievements are rooted in family and personal values.

First Marriage and Tragedy

In the early 1990s, RMD married May Ellen Ezekiel (MEE), a prominent journalist, publisher, and editor of Classique magazine. MEE was a trailblazer in Nigerian journalism, known for her fearless approach and elegant writing style. Their union attracted significant media attention, blending the worlds of entertainment and publishing.

However, tragedy struck in 1996 when MEE passed away during a surgical operation. The loss devastated RMD, who described her as his “best friend and greatest supporter.” Reflecting years later on that painful period, he stated:

“Losing May was one of the darkest times of my life. But I also learned that grief can either break you or reshape you. I chose to live with gratitude for the memories we shared.”

Second Marriage and Family Life

After several years, RMD found love again and married Jumobi Adegbesan, a former TV presenter with Africa Independent Television (AIT), in 2000. Jumobi, unlike his first wife, preferred a more private lifestyle. After their marriage, she deliberately stepped away from the media spotlight to focus on family and business.

The couple’s marriage has endured for over two decades, admired for its stability in an industry where celebrity marriages often struggle under the weight of public scrutiny. RMD has repeatedly credited his wife for being his anchor. On their 20th wedding anniversary, he wrote:

“She gave up fame to build our home. Jumobi is my rock, my friend, my partner. She is the true star in my story.”

Together, they have raised several children, blending RMD’s children from his first marriage with those from his second, creating a close-knit family. While he rarely publicizes their names or private affairs, he often shares reflections on fatherhood, noting that his children keep him grounded.

Fatherhood and Legacy

RMD is a proud father and grandfather. He often expresses that being a parent has been his greatest role, even beyond acting and politics. His children, according to him, are a constant reminder of responsibility and legacy.

In one of his Instagram posts, he wrote:

“If all I achieve is being the best dad and granddad I can be, then I have lived a full life.”

His relationship with his children is marked by warmth, mentorship, and shared values. He often posts about milestones such as graduations and weddings, underscoring his pride in their growth.

Lifestyle and Beliefs

Beyond acting and politics, RMD is known for his commitment to health, fitness, and spirituality. Even in his sixties, he maintains a youthful physique, often credited to his disciplined lifestyle. He frequently encourages men to remain active and take care of their health, emphasizing that ageing can be graceful.

He is also a deeply spiritual man, often speaking about his Christian faith and the role of God in guiding his life and career. In interviews, he has stressed that humility and gratitude are central to his worldview.

Private but Inspirational

Although RMD keeps much of his personal life away from the tabloids, his story of love, loss, resilience, and longevity has inspired many Nigerians. His ability to maintain a stable marriage, raise successful children, and balance fame with responsibility has earned him admiration far beyond Nollywood.

Estimated Net Worth

Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD) is regarded as one of the wealthiest and most influential veterans in Nollywood, with an estimated net worth ranging between $5 million and $7 million. His wealth comes from multiple streams, reflecting a career that spans over four decades.

References

References

• Wikipedia. Richard Mofe-Damijo
• Pulse Nigeria. Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD): A comprehensive biography
• Times News Global. Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD): Biography, Family, Education, Career And Net Worth
• Naija Beats. Richard Mofe-Damijo Biography
• How Nigeria News. Richard Mofe-Damijo Biography: Everything You Need To Know About The Veteran Nollywood Actor
• Manpower Nigeria. Richard Mofe Damijo biography, net worth, age, family, contact & picture
• BusinessDay Nigeria. Iya Rainbow, Richard Mofe-Damijo share AMVCA Industry Merit Award 2024
• The Nation Newspaper. Mofe-Damijo gets NACC award
• Pulse Nigeria. Richard Mofe-Damijo celebrates new honourary award in Ghana

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