The United States Embassy in Nigeria has honoured five Nigerian content creators for their outstanding performances in the “Made in America, Loved in Nigeria” video contest, an initiative aimed at promoting creativity while strengthening cultural and economic ties between both countries.
The recognition ceremony was held on Wednesday in Abuja at an event organised by the U.S. Consulate, bringing together creatives, diplomats and stakeholders to celebrate innovation and cross-cultural collaboration.
Among the winners, Rasheedat Fagbenle emerged as the grand prize recipient. Other awardees included Tito Abumere, Janefrancis Odinkemma Ugwu from Abuja, Cyril Usheshe from Cross River State, and Timileyin Durotoye from Osun State.
Speaking at the event, 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, the growing economic relationship continues to generate mutual benefits for both 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.
Reacting to her win, the grand prize recipient, 21-year-old Rasheedat Fagbenle, a final-year student of Political Science at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, expressed excitement and gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a major encouragement for her creative journey.
The event underscored the growing role of Nigeria’s creative industry in fostering people-to-people connections and reinforcing bilateral relations between both nations.