AMVCA 2026: The Night Nollywood Reminded Africa Why It’s the Best

Lagos always has a way of turning a ceremony into an event. Saturday night at the Eko Hotels and Suites was no exception.

The 2026 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards — the 12th edition of Nollywood’s biggest night — brought together the finest names in African film and television for an evening that had everything: brilliant performances, stunning fashion, and even a comedic moment that addressed one of the industry’s most talked-about dramas of the year.

The Winners

Uzor Arukwe took home Best Lead Actor for Colours of Fire, giving one of the most celebrated Nigerian male performers another milestone to add to his career. Linda Ejiofor was named Best Lead Actress for The Serpent’s Gift, a result that drew warm reactions from fans who have followed her journey in the industry.

Lateef Adedimeji won Best Indigenous Movie (West Africa) for Lisabi, and in a touching moment, dedicated the award to his wife, actress Mo Bimpe Adedimeji. Bucci Franklin also collected Best Supporting Actor for his role in To Kill a Monkey.

The Moment Everyone Is Still Talking About

Hosts Bovi Ugboma and South African actress Nomzamo Mbatha decided to take on the elephant in the room. Earlier this year, a video of Funke Akindele appearing to ignore Toyin Abraham’s greeting at a film premiere had gone viral and sparked a big conversation about unity in Nollywood. On Saturday night, Bovi and Mbatha recreated the moment on stage — and the audience erupted in laughter. What had been awkward became, briefly, joyful.

That, in many ways, is what the AMVCAs do best: take African storytelling seriously while still knowing how to have a good time.