By Prosper Mene
The 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) concluded on a high note on May 9-10, 2026, at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, celebrating outstanding achievements in African film, television, and digital content.
British-Nigerian film My Father’s Shadow, directed by Akinola Davies Jr., emerged as the biggest winner of the night, clinching the coveted Best Movie award along with approximately five other accolades. The film’s strong showing highlighted its exceptional storytelling, technical excellence, and emotional depth.
Nollywood star Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman stole the spotlight by becoming the first actress in AMVCA history to win both Best Lead Actress and Best Supporting Actress in the same edition.
She took home Best Lead Actress for her powerful performance in The Serpent’s Gift.
She won Best Supporting Actress for her role in The Herd.
This rare feat underscores her versatility and commanding presence across different projects in a single awards cycle. Ejiofor-Suleiman’s achievement has been widely celebrated as a milestone for Nigerian acting talent.
Other Major Highlights
Best Director: Akinola Davies Jr. (My Father’s Shadow) — Winner.
Best Writing (Movie): Wale Davies (My Father’s Shadow) — Winner.
Best Cinematography, Best Score/Music, and Best Sound Design also went to My Father’s Shadow, contributing to its dominant haul.
Uzor Arukwe was among the other standout acting winners, claiming Best Lead Actor. Merit awards went to veterans like Sola Sobowale and Kanayo O. Kanayo, while Uche Montana received the Trailblazer Award.
Several other films, including To Kill a Monkey, Colours of Fire, Lisabi (A Legend Is Born), and Inimba, secured multiple wins in technical and category-specific awards, reflecting the competitive and diverse field.
Gingerrr, despite leading nominations, reportedly went home empty-handed in major categories.
The AMVCA 2026 ceremony underscored the growing global influence of African cinema, with a mix of indigenous language films, diaspora stories, and innovative storytelling taking center stage. My Father’s Shadow’s success signals strong international appeal for thoughtful, well-crafted African narratives.
Congratulations poured in across social media for the winners, particularly Ejiofor-Suleiman and the team behind My Father’s Shadow. The event also featured dazzling red-carpet moments and cultural celebrations.
The 2026 edition will be remembered for its historic acting double and the crowning of a new flagship film in contemporary African cinema.
