Over 100 American Companies Driving Trade, Innovation In Nigeria – US

…As Mission Awards Five Creative Contestants In Abuja

Over 100 American companies are currently operating in Nigeria, driving trade, innovation, and entrepreneurship, the US mission in Nigeria has said.

The statement came during the “Made in America, Loved in Nigeria” video contest award ceremony held on Wednesday at Silverbird Galleria, Abuja, an event that celebrated Nigerians who demonstrated how American products, brands, and ideas enrich daily life and inspire creativity.

Delivering the opening remarks on behalf of the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr, Country Public Diplomacy Counsellor at the US Embassy in Abuja, Lee McManis, highlighted the deep commercial and cultural ties between the two nations.

“This contest is more than a showcase of American products,” he said. “It reflects the enduring partnership between the United States and Nigeria, a partnership built on commerce, mutual respect, and shared ambition,” he said.

These are the fundamentals of any strong relationship, not just between people, but between nations,” he added.

McManis went on to explain the significance 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.

“It covers 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 with this country,” he stated.

He added: “More than 100 large American companies operate here, spanning manufacturing, energy, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, and technology. They are driving innovation and creating opportunities for both Nigerians and Americans.”

The contest drew creative entries from across Nigeria, highlighting how American innovations empower local creators, open doors to global audiences, and support businesses and communities.

“Through the videos, you’ve shown us how American ideas are woven into daily life,” McManis said. “Your stories reflect not just the quality of American products, but the creativity, ambition, and energy that link our nations,” he said.

Award-winning filmmaker Dimbo Atiya, a guest of the US mission, spoke about the importance of the initiative.

“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 to THE WHISTLER 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.

Completing the top five are; Tito Abumere (Lagos), Janefrancis Odinkemma Ugwu (Abuja), Cyril Usheshe (Cross River) and Timileyin Durotoye (Osun) respectively.