Nollywood star Mercy Johnson-Okojie has finally addressed public concerns about her dramatic weight loss, revealing she underwent thyroid removal surgery following a cancer scare.

The popular actress made this revelation during a recent conversation with veteran actress Joke Silva, explaining the health challenges she has been facing behind the scenes.

"I had a cancer scare and I had my thyroid removed," Johnson-Okojie disclosed. "It was a journey for us because we have kids and my lastborn was six months old at that time. We [my husband and I] kept saying, we had to understand this is the new us, let's go get the surgery done."

The mother of four further explained the life-changing implications of her surgery, stating: "When we got there, they said that I was going to be on medication for the rest of my life. We had to sit down, they were saying I can't miss my medication, telling me the side effects."

Johnson-Okojie's weight loss had sparked intense discussions across social media platforms, with fans expressing concerns about her health. Addressing these concerns, she said: "So, I'm reconciling with this you are saying [my weight loss]. I'm at the point where you realised that this is where we are, let's grow from here and live in this comfort zone."

The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, and removal often requires lifelong hormone replacement therapy, which can affect body weight and overall appearance.

This revelation comes amid growing awareness about cancer in Nigeria, with various organizations like NICRAT (Nigerian Cancer Research and Treatment) working to improve cancer care and research in the country.

Johnson-Okojie, who has remained a beloved figure in Nollywood for over a decade, continues to receive support from fans and colleagues in the entertainment industry as she navigates this new chapter in her health journey.