Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo Appoints Nollywood Star Mercy Johnson-Okojie as Special Adviser

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has appointed renowned Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson-Okojie as his 'Special Adviser on Public Engagement and Advocacy'. The announcement, made on Thursday, February 19, 2026, has sparked widespread interest across Nigeria's political and entertainment circles.

The official statement came from the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Musa Ikhilor, who described the appointment as a strategic step to boost how citizens interact with government initiatives. Governor Okpebholo highlighted Johnson-Okojie's extensive reach and influence, noting her ability to connect with everyday people through her celebrity status, communication skills, and community involvement.

“This is to inform the general public that His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Executive Governor of Edo State, has approved the appointment of Mrs Mercy Johnson Okojie as Special Adviser on Public Engagement and Advocacy,” the communique read. The governor emphasized that her role would focus on strengthening outreach efforts, ensuring policies and programs resonate more effectively with residents throughout the state.

At 41, Mercy Johnson-Okojie is one of Nollywood's most recognizable faces, known for her prolific acting career, film production work, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. A native of Kogi State, she has long been active in charitable causes, often using her platform to support education, health, and women's empowerment initiatives. This isn't her first foray into public service—she previously served as Senior Special Assistant on Entertainment, Arts and Culture to former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello in 2017, giving her some prior experience in advisory roles tied to creative industries and public outreach.

The decision to bring a high-profile entertainer into the administration reflects a growing trend in Nigerian politics, where governors tap influential figures to bridge the gap between government and the public. Supporters see it as a smart way to humanize policies and amplify messages in a state eager for renewed momentum following recent elections. Okpebholo, who assumed office after a closely watched poll, has been prioritizing visible engagement and development projects in Edo.

 All angle of congratulations from fans and colleagues in the film industry, many calling it a well-deserved recognition of her influence beyond the screen. Others expressed curiosity about how her celebrity profile would translate into tangible policy impact, particularly in advocacy areas like youth empowerment, social welfare, and community mobilization.

As she transitions from movie sets to the corridors of power in Benin City, Johnson-Okojie's appointment adds a fresh dynamic to the Okpebholo administration. With her grassroots appeal and media savvy, expectations are high that she will help foster stronger ties between the government and Edo's diverse population.