STARS STORM LAGOS FOR 12TH AMVCA AS ‘THE HERD’, ‘GINGERRR’ LEAD NOMINATIONS
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African film stars are converging on Eko Hotels & Suites for the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, with anticipation building for one of the continent’s biggest entertainment nights.
The awards ceremony, taking place in Lagos, will be hosted by comedian Bovi and South African actress Nomzamo Mbatha.
Their selection marks a major shift in the history of the awards, as they take over hosting duties from IK Osakioduwa, who anchored the AMVCA for 11 consecutive years since the event began in 2013.
This year’s ceremony is expected to deliver a blend of glamour, entertainment and fierce competition, with millions of viewers across Africa tuning in for the annual celebration of excellence in film and television.
Among the top contenders are The Herd and Gingerrr, which lead the nomination list with nine nominations each.
Directed by Daniel Etim-Effiong, “The Herd” has attracted attention for its portrayal of insecurity and violence in Nigeria, sparking controversy in parts of northern Nigeria following its release.
“Gingerrr,” produced by Kiekie, Bisola Aiyeola, Bolaji Ogunmola and Wunmi Toriola, has also emerged as a strong contender after earning praise following premieres in London and the United States.
Other films expected to challenge for major honours include To Kill A Monkey with eight nominations, My Father’s Shadow with seven nominations, and Behind The Scenes, the highest-grossing Nollywood film of all time, with five nominations.
The 2026 AMVCA features 32 award categories, including Best Movie, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor and Best Supporting Actress.
The Best Actor category is expected to be highly competitive, with nominees including Kanayo O. Kanayo, Wale Ojo, Femi Branch, Mike Ezuruonye and Lateef Adedimeji.
In the Best Actress category, Linda Ejiofor is considered one of the favourites for her role in The Serpent’s Gift.
Other nominees include Sola Sobowale, Gloria Anozie-Young, Scarlet Gomez, Genoveva Umeh, Bimbo Akintola, Ifeoma Fafunwa and Ariyike Owolagba.
Beyond the awards, the AMVCA red carpet is once again expected to command attention as celebrities showcase elaborate couture and avant-garde fashion designs.
Last year’s event produced several viral fashion moments, including Ghanaian actress Nana Akua Addo’s sculptural dress and socialite Pretty Mike’s futuristic “Andromeda” exosuit appearance.
Other stars expected to make strong fashion statements include Osas Ighodaro, Mercy Aigbe and Doyin David.
Meanwhile, Heineken has launched its premium “House Experience” in Lagos with a star-studded entertainment event tagged “A Day With Thibaut.”
The activation, held at Ilubirin, featured a mix of sports, music and immersive entertainment experiences tied to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals and the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix.
The event was hosted by Darey Art Alade and included appearances by Thibaut Boidin, Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, alongside senior executives, influencers and entertainment stakeholders.
Guests were treated to performances by the Awanjo dancers, comedian Ayo Makun, popularly known as AY, and the Loud Urban Choir.
Singer Johnny Drille also delivered a live performance that emerged as one of the highlights of the evening.
The event concluded with another musical performance by Darey Art Alade, while Marketing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Sarah Agha, thanked guests for participating in the celebration of premium entertainment and sports culture.
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