In a statement signed by Musa Ikhilor, the Secretary to the State Government, Okpebholo said Johnson was selected due to her longstanding influence in Nollywood and her commitment to humanitarian and advocacy initiatives through her foundation.

“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 statement read.

The governor described Johnson as an accomplished actress, producer, entrepreneur and philanthropist with a career spanning nearly two decades and more than 200 film appearances. Beyond her work in the entertainment industry, the statement highlighted her humanitarian efforts through the Mercy Johnson-Okojie Foundation, which focuses on women empowerment, child welfare, education support and healthcare outreach.

According to the government, her new role will involve using her public influence and communication skills to strengthen engagement between citizens and government policies and programmes. The administration said the appointment reflects its commitment to involving respected public figures in advancing its agenda for Edo State.

“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,” the statement added.

This is not Johnson’s first political appointment. In 2017, she was appointed Senior Special Assistant on Entertainment, Arts and Culture by former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.

Johnson is married to Odianosen Okojie, who represents Esan North-East/Esan South-East Federal Constituency of Edo State in the House of Representatives.