Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo has appointed Nollywood actress, Mercy Johnson-Okojie, as Special Adviser on Public Engagement and Advocacy.
The Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor said the governor approved Johnson-Okojie’s appointment as part of efforts to strengthen public engagement with government policies and programmes.
The communique read, “This is to inform the general public that Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the appointment of Mercy Johnson-Okojie as Special Adviser on Public Engagement and Advocacy.
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“Johnson-Okojie is an accomplished Nigerian actress, producer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. She is one of Nollywood’s most celebrated figures, with a career spanning nearly two decades and featuring in over 200 films.
“Through the Mercy Johnson Okojie Foundation, she has championed causes focused on women’s empowerment, child welfare, education support, and healthcare outreach.”
Ikhilor said Johnson-Okojie is expected to leverage her public influence and grassroots reach to enhance communication between the government and citizens.
Her husband, Odianosen Okogie, represents Esan North East/South East Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
Johnson-Okojie’s appointment signals a growing trend of leveraging celebrity influence for public sector engagement in Nigeria and her ability to connect with diverse audiences could enhance civic participation and awareness of government initiatives.
Mercy Johnson-Okojie is a prominent Nigerian actress, film producer, and director in Nollywood, born on August 28, 1984, in Lagos (with roots in Okene, Kogi State). She debuted in 2004 with The Maid and has since starred in hundreds of films, earning awards for her versatile and emotional performances.
Married to Prince Odianosen Okojie since 2011, she is a mother of four and has also ventured into entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and public service, including roles like Senior Special Assistant on Entertainment in Kogi State.
The actress has previously used her platform to advocate for social causes, making her well-positioned to communicate policy messages in ways that resonate with ordinary citizens. Her foundation’s programs in education and healthcare reflect a long-standing commitment to community development.
Political analysts suggest that bringing high-profile personalities like Johnson-Okojie into governance roles could inspire other creative professionals to contribute to public service. This move may also help Edo State cultivate stronger ties between the government and younger demographics who follow her work closely.
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