Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has appointed Nollywood actresses Eucharia Anunobi and Rachael Okonkwo as aides in a fresh expansion of his administration, bringing notable figures from the entertainment industry into public service roles.
The appointments were announced in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, as part of a broader list comprising 101 new aides across various categories.
According to the announcement, Rachael Okonkwo, popularly known as “Nkoli Nwa Nsukka,” was appointed Senior Special Assistant on Film and Creative Industry Development. Veteran actress Eucharia Anunobi was named Special Assistant on Women Mobilisation for Enugu North Zone.
The appointments form part of efforts by the state government to strengthen engagement across different sectors, including the creative industry and community development initiatives.
Okonkwo, a native of Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, rose to national prominence through her performances in the popular Nkoli Nwa Nsukka movie series and has remained one of the most recognisable faces in the Nigerian film industry.
Her new role is expected to focus on promoting the growth of the creative sector, supporting talent development and exploring opportunities for the expansion of Enugu State’s entertainment industry.
Anunobi, who has enjoyed a long and successful acting career spanning more than three decades, is one of Nollywood’s most respected performers. Beyond her work in film, she later became known for her Christian ministry and public speaking engagements.
As Special Assistant on Women Mobilisation for Enugu North Zone, she is expected to support programmes aimed at community engagement, women empowerment and grassroots participation in government initiatives.
The appointments highlight the increasing collaboration between government and the creative industry, with public officials increasingly recognising the influence of entertainers in promoting social development, youth engagement and cultural advancement.
Political observers note that involving respected figures from the arts and entertainment sector can help bridge communication gaps between government and citizens while creating new opportunities for economic and cultural development.
The latest appointments also underscore Governor Mbah’s continued efforts to broaden participation in governance by drawing expertise from different professional backgrounds.
