AMVCA 2026: My Father’s Shadow Wins Best Movie as Ejiofor, Arukwe Dominate Night
The 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards wrapped up Saturday, May 9, at Eko Hotels and Suites in a blaze of glamour, emotion, and major wins for Nollywood’s biggest names.
Biggest Winner of the Night
My Father’s Shadow clinched Best Movie, beating a stacked field that included: “The Herd and Gingerrr”. The film also took home Best Director for Akinola Davies Jr., Best Writing Movie for Wale Davies, Best Sound/Sound Design, and Best Score/Music.
Acting Categories
Linda Ejiofor had a career night, winning Best Lead Actress for “The Serpent’s Gift” and Best Supporting Actress for “The Herd”. It made her one of only a few to sweep both female acting awards in a single year.
Uzor Arukwe took Best Lead Actor for his role in “Colours of Fire”, edging out Lateef Adedimeji, Wale Ojo, and Femi Branch.
Bucci Franklin won Best Supporting Actor for “To Kill a Monkey”, a role that had been trending online for months.
Other Key Wins
- Best Indigenous Movie (West Africa) “Lisabi: A Legend Is Born” – Lateef Adedimeji
- Best Digital Content Creator: “Leave to Live” – Sophia Chisom “Soso” and Emmanuel Kanaga
- Best Costume Design & Best Art Direction: “Colours of Fire”
- Best Cinematography & Best Editing “To Kill a Monkey”
- Industry Merit Awards: Kanayo O. Kanayo and Sola Sobowale
- Trailblazer Award: Uche Montana.
Highlights Beyond the Trophies
The week-long celebration kicked off with Young Filmmakers’ Day and Cultural Night before the main ceremony. The red carpet delivered, with stars in custom looks from top designers.
Hosts Bovi and Nomzamo Mbatha drew laughs and headlines after recreating the viral Funke Akindele-Toyin Abraham snub moment on stage. The night closed with a performance by Tiwa Savage.
With 32 categories spanning film, TV, and digital content, AMVCA 2026 reinforced its status as Africa’s premier celebration of storytelling.
