- The 12th AMVCA has introduced two new categories, Best Indigenous Language Film for North and Central Africa, broadening its reach across the continent.
- Industry stars such as Lateef Adedimeji, Uzor Arukwe, Bimbo Akintola, and Linda Ejiofor have secured nods in the highly competitive Lead Actor and Actress categories.
- Respected veteran actress Joke Silva has been appointed as the Head Judge for this edition, taking over from Femi Odugbemi to oversee the 18 jury-voted categories.
The African film industry is buzzing following the official announcement of the nominees for the 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).
The live broadcast, hosted by Chimezie Imo on Sunday, March 29, 2026, revealed a diverse list of talents across 32 categories.
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This year’s awards consist of 18 jury-voted honors, 11 audience-voted categories, and three prestigious special recognition awards. The main ceremony is set to light up Lagos on May 9, 2026.
A standout feature of this edition is the intentional expansion into North and Central Africa with new indigenous language categories, signaling a deeper commitment to pan-African representation.
In the “Best Overall Movie” category, top contenders include Gingerrr, The Herd, My Father’s Shadow, 3 Cold Dishes, The Serpent’s Gift, and Behind The Scenes.
These films also dominate technical categories like Cinematography and Art Direction, showcasing the rising production standards in African cinema.
The acting categories remain a focal point of discussion.
Lateef Adedimeji earned multiple nominations, including Best Lead Actor for Lisabi: A Legend Is Born, where he faces stiff competition from Wale Ojo and Mike Ezuruonye.
In the Best Lead Actress category, veteran Bimbo Akintola’s performance in To Kill A Monkey is pitted against Sola Sobowale in Her Excellency and Genoveva Umeh in The Herd.
Digital creators are also getting their flowers, with popular names like Taaooma and Steve Chuks vying for the Best Digital Content Creator prize.
As the industry prepares for the gala in May, the appointment of Joke Silva as Head Judge has been widely praised as a move that guarantees integrity and excellence.
Fans across Africa can now begin voting for their favorites in the audience-controlled categories, ensuring that the 12th AMVCA remains a true reflection of the viewers’ choice.
