The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards is set to return for its 12th edition, once again bringing together the biggest names in African film and television for a celebration of storytelling at its finest. Since its debut in 2013, the awards have grown into one of the continent’s most anticipated entertainment events, spotlighting both established stars and emerging talents.
This year’s edition has steadily built momentum following the close of entries in February and the official unveiling of nominees in March. With voting now open for audience categories, conversations across the industry have intensified, as fans and critics begin to predict who will take home the coveted awards.
Among the standout contenders, Gingerrr and The Herd lead the pack with the highest number of nominations, closely followed by To Kill a Monkey and My Father’s Shadow. Other strong entries like The Serpent’s Gift and 3 Cold Dishes have also secured multiple nominations, setting the stage for a highly competitive night.
In the acting categories, some of Nollywood’s most respected names are going head-to-head. Lateef Adedimeji, Wale Ojo, Mike Ezuruonye and Kanayo O. Kanayo are among those competing for Best Lead Actor, while the Best Lead Actress category features powerhouses like Bimbo Akintola, Sola Sobowale and Linda Ejiofor, alongside a mix of rising and seasoned talents.
Beyond acting, the awards also highlight excellence in storytelling across formats. Titles such as The Chocolate Empire, Kash Money, and The Yard are in contention for Best Scripted Series, while indigenous language films continue to gain recognition with entries like Lisabi: A Legend Is Born and Labake Olododo representing West Africa.
This year’s nominations reflect a noticeable shift within the industry. Cinema-released films are taking center stage once again, signaling renewed confidence in theatrical storytelling. At the same time, the expansion of indigenous language categories across more regions of Africa points to a growing commitment to inclusivity and cultural representation.
All eyes are now on May 9, 2026, when the main ceremony will take place in Lagos. With veteran actress Joke Silva serving as head judge, expectations are high for a night that will celebrate not just star power, but the depth and evolution of African storytelling.
As anticipation builds, the AMVCA 2026 is shaping up to be more than just an awards night. It reflects an industry in transition, one that is embracing diverse voices, rediscovering the power of cinema, and pushing African storytelling to new heights on the global stage.
