The Digest:
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has appointed renowned Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson-Okojie as Special Adviser on Public Engagement and Advocacy. A statement by Secretary to the State Government Musa Ikhilor described Johnson-Okojie as an "accomplished Nigerian actress, producer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist." In her new role, she will deploy her "vast public influence, communication expertise and grassroots reach to strengthen citizens' engagement with government policies and programmes." The appointment underscores the governor's commitment to harnessing the expertise and public goodwill of distinguished Nigerians. Johnson-Okojie previously served as Senior Special Assistant on Entertainment, Arts, and Culture to former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello in 2017. Through her Mercy Johnson Okojie Foundation, she has championed women's empowerment, child welfare, education support, and healthcare outreach.
Key Points:
- Johnson-Okojie's appointment brings celebrity influence and grassroots reach to government advocacy.
- It leverages her philanthropic credibility to enhance public engagement with state policies.
- The actress gains a policy platform, while the government benefits from her public trust.
- This signals the growing role of celebrities in governance and public advocacy.
- The timing, post-appointment, allows her to deploy her foundation's networks.
Sources: Daily Post, Edo State Government
