Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has named Munirat Anto Lecky, a media personality and former contestant on Nigeria’s popular reality show Big Brother Naija, as Senior Special Assistant on Tourism and Creative Economy. The appointment, confirmed in an official letter signed by Secretary to the State Government Umar Musa Ikhilor, takes effect on June 23, 2025.
Lecky, a media entrepreneur and actress, is tasked with enhancing Edo’s tourism and cultural sectors. Key priorities include promoting heritage assets such as the Benin Bronzes—a group of historically significant artifacts repatriated in recent years after being looted during colonial-era conflicts—and advancing plans for new museums and cultural spaces. In her new role, she will collaborate with stakeholders to position Edo as a hub for creative industries and heritage tourism.
The appointment letter, partially quoted in state communications, highlighted the governor’s confidence in her ability to contribute to “Nigeria’s tourism and cultural economy.” Lecky’s compensation will align with public service guidelines, though specific figures were not disclosed.
Expressing gratitude on Instagram, Lecky acknowledged the opportunity to serve. “With the return of our priceless Benin Bronzes and upcoming cultural projects, Edo has the potential to lead in tourism and creative innovation,” she wrote. Her remarks align with ongoing state efforts to leverage cultural diplomacy and economic diversification, particularly amid global attention on the restitution of African artifacts.
Lecky brings experience from both public service and private-sector roles. She currently serves as Special Assistant on Digital and New Media to Nigeria’s Minister of Steel Development, Shuaibu Audu. Earlier roles include overseeing Nigeria’s first private basketball league, managing programs at filmmaker Kunle Afolayan’s academy, and leading arts initiatives for ElectHER, a nonprofit focused on women’s political participation.
The move reflects a broader trend of Nigerian states appointing figures with media influence and cross-sector expertise to drive tourism agendas. Edo, home to historical sites like the Benin City National Museum and the ancient Benin Moat, aims to capitalize on renewed interest in West African heritage. The repatriation of the Benin Bronzes—over 1,000 plaques and sculptures returned by European and U.S. institutions since 2021—has become a focal point for cultural revival and economic development in the region.
Lecky’s dual background in entertainment and public policy suggests a strategic emphasis on blending grassroots engagement with institutional reforms. Observers will monitor whether her appointment accelerates progress on long-discussed projects, including the Edo Museum of West African Art, slated to house repatriated artifacts. For now, the announcement signals the state’s commitment to integrating creative industries into its economic strategy while navigating complex narratives around cultural ownership and preservation.
