An undergraduate of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, has been named the overall winner of the United States’ video talent contest, “Made in America, Loved in Nigeria.”
The competition, organised by the US Mission in Nigeria, aims to promote American products while strengthening trade, industry, and investment ties between the two countries. Out of 57 entries, five finalists were selected for the grand prize awards.
Raheedat Fagbenle from Lagos State emerged as the grand prize winner. She was followed by Tito Abumere, also from Lagos, in second place, and Janefrancis Ugwu from Abuja in third.
Fourth place went to Cyril Usheshe from Cross River State, while Timileyin Durotoye from Osun State claimed fifth position.
Speaking at the awards ceremony on Wednesday in Abuja, Lee McManis, Country Public Diplomacy Counsellor at the US Embassy, described the contest as a celebration of the enduring partnership between the United States and Nigeria, built on commerce, mutual respect, and a commitment to progress.
He emphasised that the event goes beyond showcasing American products, highlighting its role in boosting trade, investment, and business relations between both nations.
“Last year, the US Department of Commerce and Nigeria’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment signed a five-year Commercial and Investment Partnership agreement focusing on agriculture, the digital economy, and infrastructure. Nigeria is one of only five African countries with such an agreement, underscoring the importance we place on our economic relationship,” McManis said.
He added that over 100 major American companies operate in Nigeria across sectors such as manufacturing, energy, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, and technology, alongside numerous small and medium-sized enterprises.
“These companies are driving innovation, creating opportunities, and transforming lives on both sides of the Atlantic,” he noted.
McManis further commended the winners for demonstrating how American products and technologies empower Nigerians’ creativity and support businesses and communities across the country.
“Your stories not only highlight the quality and impact of American-made goods, but also the strong connections linking our nations in trade, creativity, and the pursuit of opportunity. Commerce between the US and Nigeria is about more than goods—it is about people, entrepreneurship, students, families, and communities working together for a brighter future,” he said.
