By Ali Elias
The United States Embassy in Nigeria has honoured five Nigerian content creators for their outstanding entries in the Made in America, Loved in Nigeria video contest, an initiative aimed at promoting creativity while deepening cultural and economic ties between both countries.
The recognition ceremony, held on Wednesday in Abuja, was organised by the US Consulate as part of its ongoing public diplomacy efforts to celebrate Nigeria’s vibrant creative economy and reinforce bilateral engagement.
Rasheedat Fagbenle emerged as the grand prize winner, while other honourees included Tito Abumere, Janefrancis Odinkemma Ugwu from Abuja, Cyril Usheshe from Cross River State, and Timileyin Durotoye from Osun State.
Speaking at the event, the Country Public Diplomacy Counsellor at the US Embassy in Abuja, Lee McManis, said the contest was designed to promote deeper economic and cultural relations between Nigeria and the United States.
According to him, the growing partnership is reflected in the strong presence of American businesses in Nigeria, with over 100 major US companies currently operating across various sectors of the economy.
“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 Political Science student of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, expressed excitement and gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a major encouragement for her creative journey. The Made in America, Loved in Nigeria contest forms part of broader US efforts to engage Nigeria’s youthful population, harness digital storytelling, and strengthen mutual understanding through culture, commerce, and innovation.