Nominees for AMVCA 2026 to be unveiled soon
The 12th edition features 32 award categories, expanded recognition of Indigenous languages, and rising stars from across the continent.
The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA 2026) will reveal the nominees for its 12th edition on Sunday, March 29, highlighting the growth and diversity of African film and television. Nollywood actor Chimezie Imo has been confirmed as host for the nominee announcement programme.
“The spotlight is on… and it is time to get to know your nominees. Watch the #AMVCA12 Nominee Announcement LIVE | March 29 | 7 PM WAT on #AfricaMagic channels,” the organisers said in a post on the awards’ official social media platforms.
The AMVCA 2026, organised by MultiChoice in partnership with Canal+, continues to emphasise excellence in African storytelling while increasingly broadening representation across the continent. A detailed statement published on January 10, 2026, outlined that the awards will now include new Indigenous Language categories covering North and Central Africa.
“The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) is back for its 12th edition. With entries now open, the awards continue to spotlight excellence in African film and television while expanding its Indigenous Language categories to include North and Central Africa,” the organisers said.
Entries for the 2026 awards were open between January 11 and February 15, 2026, accepting films and television content publicly screened or broadcast between January 1 and December 31, 2025. Feature-length films must have been shown in cinemas, on linear television, or on streaming platforms to qualify.
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The 12th edition will feature 32 award categories, including 18 jury-decided awards, 11 audience-voted awards, and special recognitions such as Lifetime Achievement and Trailblazer Awards. Nigerian filmmakers and actors are expected to feature prominently across categories, reflecting the country’s continued strong representation in the AMVCA.
Previous editions have seen celebrated Nigerian talents such as Genevieve Nnaji, Kunle Afolayan, and Funke Akindele receive top honours, illustrating the awards’ role in boosting careers and celebrating excellence.
“These additions reflect the AMVCA’s commitment to Pan-Africanism, cultural preservation, and equitable representation, ensuring that Africa’s diverse languages, regions, and creative voices are more fully celebrated on a continental stage,” the statement added.
The upcoming awards ceremony, scheduled to take place in Lagos in May 2026, is poised to shine a spotlight on Africa’s growing pool of storytellers, filmmakers, and actors, recognising both established names and rising talents from across the continent. In the lead-up to the announcement, excitement has been building among industry insiders, cinephiles, and viewers alike, with social media buzzing with predictions and expectations for breakout stars and breakthrough projects.
