The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the Lagos State Government’s appointment of Ayomiposi Oluwadahunsi, popularly known as Mandy Kiss, as a brand ambassador for the state’s Kick Against Drug Abuse (LASKADA) initiative.
Describing the decision as “inappropriate and counterproductive,” NANS insisted that the appointment should be revoked without delay.
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While recognizing the significance of the LASKADA campaign, the student body argued that Mandy Kiss’s selection undermines the core values the initiative seeks to uphold.
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NANS highlighted a recent viral statement by Oluwadahunsi, in which she claimed her intention to engage in mass sexual activity to secure a Guinness World Record—remarks that sparked public controversy.
According to the association, such statements are incompatible with the principles of dignity, discipline, and responsibility expected of a public health campaign ambassador.
According to Daily Post, a statement released by its National Assistant Secretary-General, Adejuwon Olatunji Emmanuel, NANS emphasized that “the credibility of the messenger is as important as the message itself.”
“The decision by the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, to endorse Ayomiposi for this role raises serious concerns about judgement and due process,” the statement read.
NANS further argued: “Influence alone cannot be the basis for such a sensitive role. While it is true that young people listen to influencers, the right ambassadors must combine influence with credibility, education, and a proven track record of positive impact.
“There are countless educated young Nigerians—students, graduates, professionals, and responsible social media influencers—who command both visibility and respect, and who would have been far more deserving choices for this role.
“We strongly believe that this appointment sends the wrong message at a time when the government should be intentional about values, role models, and the future of Nigerian youth. By endorsing controversial figures with questionable conduct, the state risks trivializing the fight against drug abuse and eroding public trust in an otherwise noble campaign.
“To this end, the Lagos State Government must immediately withdraw Mandy Kiss’s appointment as LASKADA Ambassador, and the Commissioner should apologize to Lagos residents—including students, parents, and youth advocates—whose confidence in the campaign has been undermined.
“It is also crucial that a transparent selection process be implemented to ensure that future ambassadors are individuals of integrity, credibility, and capacity to inspire young people positively.
“We recommend that the state government engage credible students, reformed substance-abuse survivors, youth leaders, respected professionals, and social media figures with clean reputations who can speak with authority and integrity.
“As the voice of Nigerian students, NANS remains committed to supporting every effort aimed at curbing drug abuse. However, we will never allow the struggle for youth development to be reduced to sensational headlines and misplaced priorities.
“The unity and well-being of our youth are too important to be jeopardized. We call on the Lagos State Government to rectify this decision immediately for the campaign’s success and the credibility of leadership.”