A Night of Honors at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards
The 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) kicked off in Lagos, showcasing exceptional talent and celebrating the vibrant landscape of African cinema. As winners were revealed, the night was marked by unforgettable moments and prestigious accolades, reflecting the growing influence of the film industry on the continent.
My Father’s Shadow Takes Top Honors
The prestigious Best Film Award was claimed by “My Father’s Shadow,” produced by Funbi Ogunbanwo and Rachel Dargabel. This cinematic masterpiece stood out for its compelling storytelling and production quality, positioning Ogunbanwo and Dargabel, along with their dedicated cast and crew, as the night’s leading victors.
Akinola Davis Jr. Recognized as Best Director
Akinola Davis Jr. received the Best Director award for his exceptional work on “My Father’s Shadow.” This accolade further solidifies the film’s success, especially following Davis and his brother Wale’s recent win for Outstanding Debut at the 2026 EE BAFTA Film Awards, marking a significant milestone in their careers.
Uzor Arkwe Shines as Best Actor
Uzor Arkwe was honored with the Best Actor award for his impactful performance in “Colors of Fire.” Competing against some of Nollywood’s most esteemed actors, including Femi Branch and Kanayo O. Kanayo, Arkwe’s portrayal resonated deeply with both audiences and critics alike.
Linda Ejiofor Dominates, Winning Best Actress
Linda Ejiofor received the Best Actress award for her captivating role in “The Gift of the Serpent.” This win is particularly noteworthy as it marks her second award of the evening, reinforcing her status as a leading figure in the industry. She triumphed over formidable contenders such as Bimbo Akintola and Genoveva Ume.
Recognition for Supporting Roles
Butch Franklin and Linda Ejiofor both took home awards in the supporting categories. Franklin won Best Supporting Actor for his notable performance in “To Kill A Monkey,” where his depiction of the crime lord Obozu received widespread acclaim. Meanwhile, Ejiofor secured the Best Supporting Actress award for her emotional performance in “The Herd,” showcasing her versatile acting skills.
Design and Technical Excellence Recognized
Valerie Okeke earned the award for Best Costume Design for her striking work in “Colors of Fire,” which brought themes of cultural heritage and emotional narrative to life through visually stunning garments. Additionally, Pius Fatoke and CJ Mira were recognized for their technical prowess in sound design for “My Father’s Shadow,” enhancing the film’s emotional depth and atmosphere.
Celebrating Diversity in Indigenous Storytelling
The AMVCA also honored films in indigenous languages across various regions of Africa, with notable winners such as Mobi Opeyade’s “Risabi – Birth of a Legend” for the West African category and Can Quintus’s “Mabunda,” which made history as the first winner of the Central African category. This recognition highlights the importance of diverse narratives within African cinema and celebrates the cultural richness of the continent.
Acclaimed Contributions in Emerging Genres
Innovative digital content creators Emmanuel Kanaga and Sophia Chisom were recognized for their work on “Leave to Live,” while Daniel Anyam won Best Editing for “To Kill A Monkey.” Their achievements emphasize the dynamic evolution of storytelling formats and production techniques within the industry.
Acknowledging Trailblazing Talent
The night also included a nod to trailblazers in the industry, with Uche Montana receiving the Pioneer Award for shaping the future of African cinema. Additionally, Sola Sobowale and Kanayo O. Kanayo were honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards, celebrating their longstanding contributions to the film industry.
