The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards celebrated the best of African film and television, but some unexpected turns made for a memorable night.
Lagos, Nigeria – The Eko Hotel Convention Centre was buzzing last night, as the 10th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCAs) took center stage. It was a celebration of the vibrant and diverse talent that makes African cinema and television so compelling. But like any good story, there were twists and turns along the way.
Femi Adebayo, the creative force behind the epic “Jagun Jagun,” was the night’s big winner. His film swept multiple categories, including Best Indigenous Language Film (West Africa). Adebayo, clearly moved by the recognition, spoke of the hard work and dedication that went into bringing his vision to life.
Kehinde Bankole, a true star of the screen, took home the Best Actress award. Her performance, a masterclass in emotional depth and nuanced storytelling, captivated audiences. Backstage, Bankole reflected on the power of film to connect people from all walks of life.
The legendary RMD (Richard Mofe-Damijo) proved that age is no barrier to success, winning the Best Actor award. His charisma and undeniable talent brought the crowd to its feet.
But not everything went according to script. Funke Akindele’s highly anticipated film “A Tribe Called Judah” was shut out of the awards, sparking a flurry of discussion online. Some fans were disappointed, while others applauded the AMVCAs for recognizing a wide range of films and filmmakers.
The night also included a special tribute to two icons of Nigerian cinema, Iya Rainbow and Olu Jacobs. Both received Lifetime Achievement Awards for their enduring contributions to the industry.
Beyond the awards themselves, the AMVCAs showcased the spirit and creativity of African storytelling. From the electrifying opening number to the heartfelt acceptance speeches, the night was a testament to the power of film and television to move and inspire.
As the lights came down on the 10th AMVCAs, one thing was clear: African cinema is a force to be reckoned with. It’s a vibrant and dynamic industry with stories that resonate far beyond the continent’s borders.
