- Safiu Kehinde
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has appointed Nollywood actress, Mercy Johnson-Okojie, as his Special Adviser on Public Engagement and Advocacy.
Though an indigene of Kogi State, Johnson-Okojie is married to Odianosen Okojie, who represents Esan North East/Esan South East Federal Constituency of Edo State in the House of Representatives.
The actress was actively engaged in the campaign for Okpebholo during the 2024 Edo Governorship Election.
Her appointment was announced in a statement issued on Thursday and signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Musa Ikhilor.
The 41-year-old actress, was according to the statement, appointed to enhance citizens’ engagement with government policies and programmes across the state.
The state government expressed confidence that Johnson-Okojie would leverage her extensive public influence, communication skills and strong grassroots connection to discharge her responsibilities effectively.
The statement read; “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.
“Mrs. Mercy 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.
“Her outstanding contributions to the Nigerian film industry have earned her numerous awards and nominations, including recognition at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) and other prestigious platforms.
“Beyond her achievements in the entertainment industry, Mrs. Johnson-Okojie is widely respected for her humanitarian and advocacy work.
“Through the Mercy Johnson-Okojie Foundation, she has championed causes focused on women empowerment, child welfare, education support and healthcare outreach. She has consistently leveraged her platform to promote social responsibility, civic awareness, and community development.
“In her new role as Special Adviser on Public Engagement and Advocacy, Mrs. Johnson-Okojie will deploy her vast public influence, communication expertise, and grassroots reach to strengthen citizens’ engagement with government policies and programmes.
“This appointment underscores the Governor’s commitment to harnessing the expertise, credibility and public goodwill of distinguished Nigerians in advancing the administration’s vision for a prosperous and united Edo State.”