Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has appointed Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson-Okojie as Special Adviser on Public Engagement and Advocacy.
The appointment was announced on Friday in Benin City and is expected to strengthen the administration’s engagement with citizens across the state.
In a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, the governor described Johnson-Okojie as a respected public figure whose influence spans social, cultural and generational lines. According to the statement, her new role will centre on enhancing public communication, promoting civic participation and amplifying government policies at the grassroots level.
Johnson-Okojie brings prior public service experience to the position. She previously served as Senior Special Assistant on Entertainment, Arts and Culture to former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, a role officials cited as part of the basis for her latest appointment.
Beyond her acting career, the actress is widely recognised for her humanitarian work through the Mercy Johnson-Okojie Foundation. The organisation has implemented initiatives focused on women’s empowerment, child protection, education support and healthcare outreach.
The Edo State Government said the appointment reflects Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to leveraging the credibility and goodwill of prominent Nigerians to advance his vision of a more inclusive and united Edo State. Officials expressed confidence that Johnson-Okojie’s public engagement expertise would help bridge the gap between government and the people.
In her acceptance speech, posted on her official Facebook page, she expressed her gratitude to His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Executive Governor of Edo State, for the trust and confidence reposed in her to appoint her as Special Adviser on Public Engagement.
“I am deeply honoured and sincerely grateful to His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Executive Governor of Edo State, for the trust and confidence reposed in me with my appointment as Special Adviser on Public Engagement and Advocacy.
This appointment is not just a call to serve, it is a call to connect, to listen, and to advocate with purpose.
I accept this responsibility with humility, dedication, and an unshakable commitment to service and i fully aligned with His Excellency’s SHINE Agenda of responsive/ Practical governance and sustainable development.
To the great people of Edo State: this role is about you—your voices, your stories, and your participation in governance. Together, we will deepen civic engagement, strengthen trust, and advance a people-centered Edo where every voice truly counts.
Thank you for the overwhelming support and goodwill.
The journey continues. The work begins now.
MERCY JOHNSON OKOJIE
Special Adviser on Public Engagement & Advocacy
Edo State”.
