President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Alhaji Abubakar Yakubu, has commended the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, for appointing Nollywood star Mercy Johnson-Okojie as Special Adviser on Public Engagement and Advocacy.

Speaking at the Guild’s national headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, Yakubu described the appointment as recognition of Nollywood’s growing influence in governance, civic engagement, and national development.

He said the governor had consistently demonstrated support for the Guild and the broader creative industry, noting that Edo State hosted the AGN National Conference in December, which attracted delegates from more than 30 states.

“To appoint one of our distinguished members as Special Adviser just months later is a source of pride to the Guild and the entire creative ecosystem,” Yakubu said.

He added that Johnson-Okojie’s public appeal, communication skills, and grassroots connection position her strongly for the role.

Governor Okpebholo described her as an accomplished actress, producer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, noting that she remains one of Nollywood’s most recognised figures, with a career spanning nearly two decades and over 200 films.

He also highlighted her advocacy work through the Mercy Johnson-Okojie Foundation, which focuses on women’s empowerment, child welfare, education support, and healthcare outreach.

According to the governor, the appointment reflects his administration’s commitment to leveraging the expertise and credibility of accomplished Nigerians to advance Edo State’s development agenda.

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.

Yakubu said the development reinforces the Guild’s resolve to strengthen collaboration between Nollywood and governance, emphasising the creative industry’s role as a stakeholder in national development.