The United States Embassy in Nigeria has recognised five Nigerian content creators for their outstanding entries in the Made in America, Loved in Nigeria video contest.
This recognition took place on Wednesday in Abuja during an event organised by the US Consulate to celebrate creativity and strengthen cultural and economic ties between both countries. They were recognozes for creatively showcasing the influence of American products, brands and ideas in everyday Nigerian life.
The winners announced at the event were Rasheedat Fagbenle, who emerged as the grand prize winner, alongside Tito Abumere, Janefrancis Odinkemma Ugwu from Abuja, Cyril Usheshe from Cross River State, and Timileyin Durotoye from Osun State.
Speaking at the ceremony, Lee McManis, Country Public Diplomacy Counsellor at the US Embassy in Abuja, said the contest was designed to promote deeper economic and cultural relations between the United States and Nigeria.
He reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to economic partnership with Nigeria, noting that over 100 major American companies currently operate in the country.
According to him, these values form the foundation of strong bilateral relations, not only between individuals but also between nations.
“This contest is more than a showcase of American products and brands. It is a celebration of the enduring partnership between the United States and Nigeria—a partnership built on commerce, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to progress,” McManis said.
McManis further highlighted the importance of the five-year Commercial and Investment Partnership Agreement signed between the US Department of Commerce and Nigeria’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment.
“The agreement covers agriculture, the digital economy and infrastructure. Nigeria is one of only five African countries with such a partnership, underscoring how much value we place on our economic relationship,” he said.
He added that American businesses operating in Nigeria cut across manufacturing, energy, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals and technology, creating opportunities for citizens of both countries.
He said, “A key priority of our Mission is to increase trade, investment, and business ties between our two nations. Last year, the U.S. Department of Commerce and Nigeria’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment signed a Commercial and Investment Partnership agreement—a five-year memorandum of understanding that focuses on agriculture, the digital economy, and infrastructure.
“Nigeria is one of only five African nations with such an agreement, underscoring the importance we place on our economic relationship. Currently, more than 100 large American companies operate in Nigeria, spanning manufacturing, energy, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, and technology.
The contest attracted entries from across Nigeria, with participants demonstrating how American innovations support creativity, empower local businesses and connect Nigerian creators to global audiences.
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“Through your skits, you have shown us how American ideas, innovations, and products are woven into the fabric of daily life in Nigeria. Many entries explored how American technologies empower Nigerian creatives, opening doors to new skills, knowledge, and global audiences.
“Others highlighted the reliability of American products, demonstrating how American engineering supports businesses and communities across the country.
Your stories not only illustrate the quality and impact of American-made goods and innovations, but also the strong connections that link our two nations—not just in trade, but in creativity, ambition, and the pursuit of opportunity”, he added.
Award-winning filmmaker and guest of the US Mission, Dimbo Atiya, described the initiative as a platform for equipping young Nigerians with modern storytelling skills.
“The idea is to help young Nigerians understand storytelling in the digital age. Vertical productions are the future, and contests like this give creatives the skills and platform to reach global audiences. Of course, it also allows the Americans to promote their trade avenues, but the young Nigerians are empowered to tell their own stories and sell their products,” he said.
Speaking after the event, Grand prize winner Ifeoluwa Fagbenle (Lagos), whose video wowed the judges, described her journey as both humbling and inspiring.
“I always push to make my videos professional and high-quality. Even if I have to buy new gadgets, I make sure my content stands out.
“My message to other content creators is simple: push out your content, do not hold back. You never know when your work will reach the right people and make an impact,” she stated.