AMVCA 2026: Full List of Nominees for Best Lead Actor Revealed

The competition for the Best Lead Actor award at the upcoming 12th Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA) is set to be exceptionally fierce. With the ceremony slated for May 9, 2026, in Lagos, and Joke Silva serving as the head judge, the list of eight nominees highlights the impressive calibre of talent across African film and television.

This year's nominees showcase a remarkable range of performances. One actor, known for his intense portrayals, delivers a gentler, warmer performance as a grieving grandfather navigating unexpected family joys. Another nominee reprises his role in a historical epic, solidifying his connection to the character. A crime thriller features a central performance of a brilliant man drawn into illegal activities, portrayed with subtle restraint that amplifies his descent. Notably, a South African actor's inclusion signifies the AMVCA's growing continental reach.

The nominees are a testament to the difficulty in selecting a winner for this highly contested category.

Mike Ezuruonye — Oversabi Aunty

In the comedy "Oversabi Aunty," where Toyin Abraham plays a self-righteous character, Mike Ezuruonye portrays Chidi, her more reserved husband. Ezuruonye's performance relies on subtle expressions and pauses, effectively conveying Chidi's frustration without overt theatrics. His comedic timing, particularly in blending Igbo and Yoruba dialogue, adds humour while maintaining character believability. Abraham commended their collaboration, noting Ezuruonye exceeded her expectations for the role. This marks Ezuruonye's debut nomination in the AMVCA Best Lead Actor category.

A still image shows Mike Ezuruonye and Toyin Abraham in a scene from "Oversabi Aunty."

Lateef Adedimeji — Lisabi: A Legend Is Born

Lateef Adedimeji has achieved a historic milestone with multiple nominations this awards season, including a triple nod in acting categories alone. He is recognized for his lead role as the Egba hero in "Lisabi: A Legend Is Born," reprising a character he previously embodied in "Lisabi: The Uprising." Adedimeji has shown significant dedication to this franchise, co-producing both films with his wife, actress Mo Bimpe. His acting prowess is further demonstrated by two Best Supporting Actor nominations for "Gingerrr" and "Red Circle," showcasing remarkable versatility within a single awards cycle.

"Lisabi: The Uprising" garnered three awards at the 2025 AMVCA, including Best Indigenous Language Film (West Africa), Best Art Direction, and Best Makeup. Adedimeji's involvement this year extends to five nominations across various categories, including Best Indigenous Film and Best Makeup.

A still image depicts Lateef Adedimeji in costume as Lisabi, leading warriors in "Lisabi: A Legend Is Born."

Khumbuza Meyiwa — Bet I Love You

Khumbuza Meyiwa is the sole non-Nigerian nominee in this category, highlighting the AMVCA's commitment to celebrating talent across Africa. "Bet I Love You" centers on Rex, a compulsive gambler whose actions have severe consequences for his family. Meyiwa, known for his role in "The Queen," stars alongside Nosipho Majola in this film directed by Nigerian Joseph Duke and produced by Urban Brew Studios. The movie premiered at the 2025 Joburg Film Festival and later became available on Showmax. This nomination is Meyiwa's first AMVCA nod.

William Benson — To Kill A Monkey

"To Kill A Monkey" tells the story of Efemini, a skilled graduate struggling to find meaningful employment in Lagos. Drawn into cybercrime by an acquaintance, he becomes the tech expert for a syndicate, all while a detective pursues the case. Benson's performance is characterized by a deliberate subtlety, effectively conveying Efemini's internal struggles with survival, betrayal, and moral dilemmas. The film's release in 2025 led to significant buzz and it topped Netflix charts. This nomination for Best Lead Actor is Benson's first AMVCA recognition.

A behind-the-scenes photo shows director Kemi Adetiba with actors William Benson and Bucci Franklin on the set of "To Kill A Monkey."

Kanayo O. Kanayo — Grandpa Must Obey

In a notable shift from his typical roles, Kanayo O. Kanayo plays a 70-year- old widower grappling with grief. His life takes a turn when he becomes a caregiver for his grandchildren, leading to a heartwarming narrative about healing and family reconnection. This role allows the veteran actor to explore warmth, humour, and emotional depth, a departure from his commonly intense on- screen personas.

Uzor Arukwe — Colours of Fire

Uzor Arukwe portrays a warrior tasked with hunting a mythical beast, a mission that unearths a deeper conspiracy. The role requires him to display physical strength, emotional vulnerability, and navigate the tension of loyalty versus personal conviction. Arukwe previously received dual nominations at the 2020 AMVCA for Best Actor in a Comedy and a Best Supporting Actor nomination in 2025. This year, he is recognized in two categories: Best Lead Actor for "Colours of Fire" and Best Supporting Actor for "Behind The Scenes."

A still image shows Uzor Arukwe and Osas Ighodaro in traditional attire from the film "Colours of Fire."

Wale Ojo — 3 Cold Dishes

Directed by Asurf Oluseyi and written by Tomi Adesina, "3 Cold Dishes" follows three women seeking justice after being trafficked. Wale Ojo plays a pivotal role in this narrative of retribution. The film itself has garnered six AMVCA nominations, including Best Movie, Best Director, Best Writing, Best Score, and Best Editing.

Ojo has previously been nominated for AMVCAs in 2015 and 2018. He won the Best Lead Actor award in 2024 for "Breath of Life." His return to the Best Lead Actor category two years later indicates his continued acclaim by the academy.

Femi Branch — Red Circle

Femi Branch earned a Best Lead Actor nomination at the 2025 AMVCA for his role as the formidable Bashorun Ga’a in "House of Ga’a." This year, he is recognized again for his performance in the crime thriller "Red Circle," where he tackles a character facing personal and moral challenges. Branch also received a Best Supporting Actor nomination for his role in the comedy "Owambe Thieves" in the same awards cycle.