The Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, has explained the reasoning behind appointing popular content creator Ayomiposi Oluwadahunsi, widely known as Mandy Kiss, as an ambassador for the Lagos State Kicks Against Drug Abuse (LASKADA) initiative.
A viral video released on Tuesday showed Ogunlende officially conferring the ambassadorship on Mandy Kiss.
“We’re here with Mandy Kiss. She’s agreed to become one of our LASKADA brand ambassadors,” Ogunlende announced.
“We must partner with individuals who can influence large audiences—and with over 402,000 followers, she clearly can. We’ve had meaningful discussions, and we’re doing things differently.”
The Commissioner described drug abuse as a societal pandemic, stressing the need for collaboration with influential figures to help spread awareness.
The appointment came shortly after the 25-year-old influencer made headlines for her controversial plan to set a Guinness World Record by sleeping with 100 men a declaration that drew significant public backlash and concern over its moral implications.
On Tuesday, Ogunlende took to social media to share photos from the unveiling, captioning his post.
“A society thrives when it listens, engages, and redirects its future with compassion and purpose.”
He justified the move by stating that rather than condemn Mandy Kiss, the government chose to engage her constructively.
“With the Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led administration committed to being responsive and responsible, I had the privilege of meeting Mandy Kiss after her public announcement of a record attempt that clearly did not align with our values.
However, as a government that listens, we noted her subsequent change in tone. In a spirit of understanding and responsibility, we engaged in open dialogue, assessed the situation, and chose to guide rather than cancel,” Ogunlende wrote.
He emphasized the government’s dedication to promoting mental health, emotional well-being, and inclusive interventions.
“Mandy Kiss is influential among youths—our future leaders. This isn’t about glamorizing past mistakes, but about transforming them into opportunities for growth. What could have been a controversial chapter is now a pivotal moment of redirection.”
Now a LASKADA ambassador, Mandy Kiss is expected to partner with the Lagos State government in raising awareness about drug abuse and substance misuse among youths.
“Her story reflects transformation, not cancellation,” the Commissioner concluded. “It’s a testament to what’s possible when young people are met with empathy, guidance, and opportunities for positive change.”
This development comes weeks after Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced plans to appoint Fuji musician KWAM 1 as an airport security protocol ambassador following public controversy over an alleged incident at the Abuja airport.
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