AMVCA 2026 Winners and Highlights: Full List, Big Wins & Memorable Moments

The 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA 2026) took place on Saturday, May 9/10, 2026, at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, Nigeria. Hosted by comedian Bovi and actress Nomzamo Mbatha, the star-studded event celebrated excellence in African film, television, and digital content. My Father’s Shadow emerged as the biggest winner of the night, while Linda Ejiofor made history with a rare double acting victory. The ceremony blended glamour, powerful speeches, and vibrant African creativity.

Major Winners

Best Movie went to My Father’s Shadow (producers Fumbi Ogunbanwo and Rachel Dargavel). The film dominated the night with five major awards.

Best Director was awarded to Akinola Davies Jr. for My Father’s Shadow.

Best Lead Actor: Uzor Arukwe for his commanding performance in Colours of Fire. He beat strong contenders including Lateef Adedimeji, Wale Ojo, and Kanayo O. Kanayo.

Photo credit: Instagram 

Best Lead Actress: Linda Ejiofor for The Serpent’s Gift. She also won Best Supporting Actress for The Herd, becoming the first actress to win both categories in the same night — a historic achievement.

Photo credit: Instagram 

Best Supporting Actor: Bucci Franklin for To Kill a Monkey. He delivered an emotional speech dedicating the win to his late mother.

Photo credit: Vanguard Allure

Other Notable Wins

• Best Writing (Movie): Wale Davies – My Father’s Shadow

  

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• Best Score/Music and Best Sound Design: My Father’s Shadow

  

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• Best Cinematography and Best Editing: To Kill a Monkey

  

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• Best Art Direction and Best Costume Design: Colours of Fire

  

  Photo credit: Instagram 

  
  

• Best Makeup: Lisabi (A Legend Is Born)

  

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• Best Indigenous Language (West Africa): Lisabi (A Legend Is Born) – Lateef Adedimeji (who dedicated the win to his wife, Mo Bimpe)

  

  Photo credit: Nollywire

  
  

• Best Writing (TV Series): MTV Shuga Mashariki (third consecutive year)

  

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• Trailblazer Award: Uche Montana

  

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• Industry Merit Awards: Sola Sobowale and Kanayo O. Kanayo

  

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My Father’s Shadow, Colours of Fire, and To Kill a Monkey led the technical and major categories, highlighting strong Nollywood and pan-African storytelling. Memorable Moments & Red Carpet HighlightsThe red carpet was a fashion spectacle, often compared to the Met Gala for its creativity and cultural storytelling. Standout looks included:

• Osas Ighodaro in sculptural Veekee James creations (one with metal sponges).

• Nana Akua Addo’s theatrical, architectural, and nature-inspired gowns.

• Queen Mercy Atang’s bold bread-themed dress (made with hundreds of loaves).

• Bold, regal, and culturally inspired ensembles from Nomzamo Mbatha, Uche Montana, and many others.

Performances by artists like Tiwa Savage, Fave, and BNXN kept the energy high. Emotional acceptance speeches, tributes, and celebrations of pan-African talent added depth to the glamorous night. Why AMVCA 2026 MatteredThe 2026 edition showcased the growing global influence of African cinema, with stronger technical excellence, regional representation (East, West, and beyond), and stories that blend cultural depth with universal appeal. It reinforced Nollywood’s leadership while highlighting rising talents and established veterans.How to Watch

• Full ceremony and highlights available on Africa Magic channels (DStv/GOtv), DStv Stream, and GOtv Stream.

• Check official Africa Magic and AMVCA social pages for clips, red carpet photos, and behind-the-scenes content.

This post connects seamlessly with the Ultimate Guide to Entertainment Awards, Festivals & Major Events in 2026 for a full overview of the year’s biggest nights.Which AMVCA 2026 moment stood out for you — Linda Ejiofor’s historic double win, My Father’s Shadow’s dominance, or a favorite red carpet look? Share in the comments!

References & Sources

• Official coverage from TVC News, BusinessDay NG, BellaNaija, BBC, Pulse Nigeria, and Premium Times NG.