Kanayo O. Kanayo Delivers Powerful Message at AMVCA 2026
Veteran Nollywood actor Kanayo O. Kanayo, widely known as Nnayi Sacrifice, received the Industry Merit Award at the 12th Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA) held in Lagos, Nigeria, on Saturday, May 9, 2026. He shared the honor with his colleague Sola Sobowale. During his acceptance speech, Kanayo delivered a bold and timely message condemning the persistent xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
Speech Highlights
Kanayo dedicated his award to African film practitioners across the continent, stating, "This is for Africa, for everyone who works as cast and crew. Even before 1992, many of us were no longer in good health, many have returned to their villages, and many have passed on." He added, "Sometimes, when you stand on a stage like this, you ask yourself, ‘What have I done to still be alive?’ Yes, I have made a lot of sacrifices. I want to extend a hand of friendship to Canal+, please keep this going. This is one thing that unites the whole of Africa."
Condemning the rising wave of xenophobic attacks, the actor expressed his displeasure with the situation in South Africa. "Let us lend our voices against xenophobia in South Africa. We are not happy. As Africans, we cannot continue running from Africa," he said.
Public Reactions
Kanayo's speech stirred significant reactions on social media. User enchanteurbae commented, "That moment felt so so real, am happy he spoke about it." Another user, krozxborder, noted, "The only valuable speech in the whole award show… none was bold enough to speak up." However, some commenters offered differing perspectives. Cairo_dejaeger remarked, "Ok, he's not happy with what is happening in South Africa. Why is he not talking about Nigerians entering South Africa without the right papers? Because it starts there, and we've been patient with y'all." Others like iam_jenny.chi and promisee31 shared their views, with the latter stating, "Other Nigerian celebrities are afraid because of stomach infrastructure. Mugus."
Other AMVCA 2026 Highlights
Uzor Arukwe, Lateef Adedimeji, and Uche Montana were among the stars who won awards at the event. Additionally, actress Osas Ighodaro captivated fans with her stunning outfits, particularly her red carpet dress, which drew widespread praise on social media.
