The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has expressed concern over the recent appointment of Ayomiposi Oluwadahunsi, popularly known as Mandy Kiss, as a brand ambassador of the Lagos State “Kick Against Drug Abuse” initiative (LASKADA).
NANS’ Assistant Secretary General, Comrade Adejuwon Olatunji Emmanuel who noted that the campaign itself was laudable, said the choice of Mandy Kiss as ambassador was both inappropriate and counterproductive.
“Mandy Kiss, days before this appointment, publicly made statements about engaging in mass sexual activity, remarks that went viral and generated national outrage.
“Such pronouncements are inconsistent with the values of responsibility, dignity, and self-control that a public health campaign like LASKADA is meant to promote.
“The credibility of the messenger is as important as the message, and in this case, the messenger undermines the message”, NANS said.
According to the students, the decision by the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth & Social Development, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, to approve this appointment raises serious questions about judgment and due process, adding that 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 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 believes that this appointment sends the wrong message at a time when government should be intentional about values, role models, and the future of Nigerian youth.
“By endorsing controversial figures with questionable conduct, the state risks trivialising the fight against drug abuse and eroding public trust in an otherwise noble campaign”.
While acknowledging that the commissioner came out to defend the reason for the appointment, NANS argued, “Does he not know such appointment wilĺ make more youths to want to do bad things to get government honour?
“What attribute does she possess, that made them to make her ambassador ? What are we to learn from her?
“However, the Lagos State government must immediately withdraw the appointment of Mandy Kiss as LASKADA Ambassador,” he said.
Emmanuel further said, “The Commissioner should apologise to stakeholders, including students, parents, and youth advocates, whose trust in the campaign has been shaken,”
He also called for a transparent selection process to ensure that future ambassadors are educated, credible, and capable of inspiring young people positively.
NANS recommended that the state government should 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 stand by and watch the struggle for youth development reduced to sensational headlines and misplaced priorities.
“The unity and health of our youth are too important to be gambled with. We call on the Lagos State government to correct this error immediately in the interest of the campaign’s success and the credibility of leadership”, Emmanuel added.
