AMVCA 2026 Nominations Announced with Major Nollywood Contenders
The Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA) has officially released its highly anticipated list of nominees for the 2026 edition, setting the stage for a competitive awards ceremony in Lagos this May. The announcement, made on Sunday, March 29, 2026, reveals a diverse array of films and series vying for recognition across 32 distinct categories.
Notable Films and Series Garner Multiple Nominations
Leading the pack is the Netflix series To Kill a Monkey, directed by Kemi Adetiba, which secured multiple nominations in key categories. Other standout productions include Gingerr and Red Circle, both of which have earned significant spots on the nomination list. Veteran Nollywood stars Funke Akindele and Toyin Abraham also see their latest projects, Behind The Scenes and Oversabi Aunty respectively, nominated for awards, highlighting their continued influence in the industry.
Key Acting Categories Feature Established and Emerging Talents
The acting categories showcase a mix of seasoned performers and rising stars. Actor Lateef Adedimeji stands out with nominations in both the Best Supporting Actor and Best Lead Actor categories for his roles in Gingerr and Red Circle. In the Best Lead Actress category, notable nominees include Bimbo Akintola, Sola Sobowale, and Linda Ejiofor, reflecting the depth of talent in Nollywood today.
Directorial and Supporting Roles Highlight Industry Diversity
Daniel Etim Effiong's The Herd has been nominated for Best Director, competing against acclaimed filmmakers Akinola Davies Jr and Tunde Kelani. The Best Supporting Actor category features a strong lineup, including Simileoluwa Hassan for The Yard, Gabriel Afolayan for Colours of Fire, and Femi Adebayo for King of Thieves 2, among others.
Public and Jury Voting Determine Winners
Of the 32 award categories, 18 will be decided by a professional jury, while 11 are open to public voting, allowing fans to have a direct impact on the outcomes. This dual approach ensures a balanced recognition of both critical acclaim and popular appeal, with the ceremony scheduled to take place in Lagos in May 2026.
Social Media Reactions and Industry Commentary
Following the release of the nominees, social media platforms have been abuzz with reactions from fans and industry insiders. Comments range from celebrations of nominees like Linda Ejiofor to critiques, such as queries about the omission of certain performances. Additionally, actor Kunle Remi recently made headlines by contrasting the award presentation styles of the Oscars and AMVCA, sparking discussions about award ceremonies in Nollywood.
The full list of nominees underscores the vibrant and evolving landscape of African cinema, with the 2026 AMVCA poised to celebrate the best in filmmaking talent from across the continent.
