- MultiChoice has appointed veteran actress Joke Silva as the Head Judge for the 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), scheduled for May 9, 2026.
- For the first time, a luxury spirits brand, Don Julio Tequila, will serve as the headline sponsor, alongside Johnnie Walker and The Singleton.
- This edition introduces a deliberate emphasis on behind-the-scenes excellence, recognizing the technicians, editors, and designers who shape African cinema.
MultiChoice, the organizers of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), announced on Thursday that the 12th edition of the ceremony will take place on May 9, 2026.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the legendary Joke Silva has been named Head Judge, tasked with overseeing the jury-decided categories for this year’s competition.
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The 12th edition marks a significant shift in the event’s corporate partnership.
Don Julio Tequila has stepped in as the headline sponsor, representing the first time a luxury spirits brand has taken the lead role.
Atinuke Babatunde, Executive Head of Content and Channels at MultiChoice West Africa, noted that the partnership reflects a “spirit of global excellence” that mirrors the artistry of African storytellers.
The theme for this year centers on “Craftsmanship,” moving the spotlight to the often-unsung heroes of production, writers, editors, and technicians, whose dedication defines the quality of modern African cinema.
Fans and industry insiders won’t have to wait long for the competition to heat up. The official nominees will be unveiled tomorrow, Sunday, March 29, 2026, during a live broadcast on all Africa Magic channels, hosted by popular actor Chiemezie Imo.
The awards will feature a total of 32 categories, including 18 jury-decided awards and 11 audience-voted categories.
As usual, the night will also feature three special recognition honors: the Trailblazer Award and the highly coveted Lifetime Achievement Award.
The inclusion of major global brands like Diageo’s Don Julio and Johnnie Walker signals the growing commercial viability of the African creative economy.
Segun Ogunleye, Head of Marketing at Diageo, emphasized that the partnership is rooted in shared values of “passion and luxury.”
With the nomination list just hours away, the Nigerian and broader African entertainment industry is bracing for another record-breaking year of celebration and cultural pride.
