The United States Mission in Nigeria has revealed that more than 100 American companies are currently operating in the country, contributing significantly to trade expansion, innovation, and entrepreneurship across key sectors.
The disclosure was made on Wednesday at the “Made in America, Loved in Nigeria” video contest award ceremony held at Silverbird Galleria, Abuja. The event honoured five Nigerian content creators for showcasing how American products, brands, and ideas impact everyday Nigerian life.
Delivering opening remarks on behalf of the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., Lee McManis, Country Public Diplomacy Counsellor at the US Embassy, said the contest underscores the depth of commercial and cultural ties between the United States and Nigeria.
“The contest is more than a showcase of American products; it reflects the enduring partnership between our nations, built on commerce, mutual respect, and shared ambition,” McManis said.
He highlighted the five-year Commercial and Investment Partnership Agreement signed between the US Department of Commerce and Nigeria’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, covering agriculture, the digital economy, and infrastructure. “Nigeria is one of only five African countries with such a partnership, showing the value we place on our economic relationship,” he added.
McManis further explained that American companies in Nigeria operate across manufacturing, energy, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, and technology, creating opportunities for both Americans and Nigerians. “These companies, along with numerous small and medium-sized enterprises, drive ingenuity, innovation, and prosperity for both countries. This is trade that transforms lives and creates opportunities on both sides of the Atlantic,” he said.
The contest attracted participants from across Nigeria, with entries demonstrating how American innovations support local businesses, empower creators, and connect them to global audiences. McManis noted that many entries explored how American technologies equip Nigerian creatives with new skills and knowledge, while others highlighted the reliability of American products in supporting businesses and communities.
Award-winning filmmaker Dimbo Atiya described the initiative as a platform that equips young Nigerians with modern storytelling skills. “Vertical productions are the future, and contests like this give creatives the skills and platform to reach global audiences,” he said.
Grand prize winner Ifeoluwa Fagbenle of Lagos described her journey as humbling and inspiring. “I always push to make my videos professional and high-quality. 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 said.
Completing the top five winners are Tito Abumere (Lagos), Janefrancis Odinkemma Ugwu (Abuja), Cyril Usheshe (Cross River), and Timileyin Durotoye (Osun).
