Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has appointed former Big Brother Naija housemate Munirat Antoinette Lecky, popularly known as Anto Lecky, as Special Adviser on Tourism and Creative Economy.
The appointment, announced on Tuesday, represents a promotion for Lecky, who previously served as Senior Special Assistant on Tourism and Creative Economy in the state.
Her elevation comes as the Okpebholo administration continues to identify tourism, cultural heritage and creative industries as potential drivers of economic activity and development in Edo State.
According to the announcement, Lecky will serve as Special Adviser on Tourism and Creative Economy, continuing her involvement in the government’s efforts to promote the state’s cultural and creative sectors.
However, the announcement did not provide specific details of projects, targets or new initiatives she would be expected to deliver in her expanded role.
Edo State is widely recognised for its rich cultural heritage, traditional institutions and artistic traditions, which offer opportunities for tourism development and creative enterprise.
Among its most prominent cultural attractions are the internationally recognised Benin bronzes, alongside traditional crafts, festivals and contemporary artistic expressions that reflect the state’s historical significance.
These cultural assets provide opportunities to attract visitors, promote local businesses and create employment through tourism and related creative activities.
Lecky first gained national recognition in 2018 when she participated in the third season of Big Brother Naija, titled Double Wahala.
She finished in sixth place after being evicted one week before the grand finale, becoming known to a wider Nigerian audience through the reality television programme.
Her subsequent involvement in Edo State’s tourism and creative economy portfolio marked a transition from entertainment into public service.
Her appointment as Special Adviser signals continuity in her engagement with the sector under the Okpebholo administration.
The effectiveness of the new role will depend on the programmes and initiatives developed to translate Edo State’s cultural resources into sustainable tourism growth and opportunities for people working across its creative industries.
