Reality TV star and actress Anto Lecky has taken on a bigger role in Nigerian public service. She has been appointed Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Tourism and Creative Economy, according to a report by YEN.com.gh.
The appointment letter, dated October 12, 2026, was signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, on behalf of Governor Monday Okpebholo, YEN.com.gh reports. The report describes the new role as a promotion, as she has already been serving the state government in an earlier capacity.
Anto Lecky, whose full name is Munirat Antoinette Lecky, announced the appointment on Instagram on October 21. "In just a little over a year, I've been given a promotion to do more for my state, and I am extremely grateful," she wrote, according to the report.
She cited the saying: "The reward for work well done is the opportunity to do more."
She also had a message for other celebrities who take up government roles, urging them to "please truly answer the call and do the job." She added: "I know how difficult it might be to leave the comfort of your homes."
Her stated goal is to "take Edo To The World", and she said her open-door policy remains in place for anyone with ideas on tourism or the creative economy.
Anto Lecky rose to fame as a housemate on the third season of Big Brother Naija in 2018, one of the most-watched reality shows in Africa. She later built a career as an actress in Nollywood and as a media personality.
Her move into government reflects a growing trend in Nigeria, where state governments have appointed entertainers and celebrities to roles focused on tourism, culture and youth engagement.
Edo State, in southern Nigeria, is home to the historic city of Benin, the seat of the ancient Benin Kingdom. The kingdom is world-famous for the Benin Bronzes, intricate artworks that were looted by British forces in 1897 and are now the subject of a high-profile campaign for their return.
The state's rich history, cultural festivals and creative talent give it strong potential for tourism, which Lecky is expected to promote in her new role. Governor Monday Okpebholo took office in November 2024.
Across West Africa, entertainers are increasingly taking on official roles in government and public bodies. Supporters say they bring visibility, energy and connections with young people, while critics argue that such appointments must be backed by real expertise and results.
In Nigeria, several state governments have created advisory and commissioner roles dedicated to the creative economy, recognising that film, music, fashion and digital content have become significant sources of jobs for young people. Nollywood alone is one of the largest film industries in the world by output.
Lecky's message urging fellow celebrity appointees to "do the job" suggests she is aware of that debate and wants to be judged on her work.
Fans and colleagues congratulated her online. YEN.com.gh reports that one follower praised her as proactive and said Edo State is "blessed to have" her, while others, including fellow entertainers, sent messages of support.
Tourism and the creative economy are growing priorities for governments across West Africa, as they look for ways to create jobs and attract investment. In Ghana, the government has just launched its December in GH 2026 campaign, and a new African Festival of Arts, Culture and Creativity is planned for Accra in December.
Lecky's appointment is another example of how the region's entertainment talent is being drawn into efforts to grow these sectors.
