The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) has officially announced its nominees for the upcoming 12th edition, with both ‘Gingerrr’ and ‘The Herd’ securing the spotlight by each clinching nine nominations, making them the films to watch this season.
The nominations were revealed during a live broadcast on Africa Magic channels, with award-winning actor Chimezie Imo hosting the event on Sunday.
Trailing closely behind these leading films is ‘To Kill A Monkey,’ which has earned eight nominations, alongside ‘My Father’s Shadow,’ which received seven nods. These selections highlight what organizers consider a remarkable year for African cinema, characterized by engaging storytelling, technical brilliance, and a wide range of narratives.
Both ‘Gingerrr’ and ‘The Herd’ are Nigerian box office hits from late 2025 that garnered significant success and critical acclaim. ‘The Herd’ is a gripping crime thriller exploring issues of insecurity and kidnapping, directed by Daniel Etim-Effiong, while ‘Gingerrr’ is a dynamic drama set in Lagos that follows the hustle and bustle of the city, directed by Yemi Morafa, which grossed nearly ₦400 million shortly after its release.
In the acting categories, a blend of seasoned artists and rising stars received nominations. Noteworthy among them is Sola Sobowale, who garnered nominations in both lead and supporting roles, alongside actors such as Uzor Arukwe and Lateef Adedimeji, who also received multiple nominations.
Additionally, Genoveva Umeh is making her mark with her first-ever nomination for Best Lead Actress, establishing herself as a talent to watch ahead of the awards ceremony.
Voting for public categories commenced at 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 29, via the official AMVCA website. The awards will feature 32 categories, consisting of 18 determined by a jury, 11 open to public votes, and three special acknowledgment honors.
The 12th edition of the AMVCA is slated for Saturday, May 9, 2026, and is highly anticipated to celebrate the achievements within Africa's film and television industry.
This edition follows the 11th AMVCA, where ‘Freedom Way’ took home the award for Best Movie, while ‘Seven Doors’ led the acting nominations. Winners included Femi Adebayo and Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha for lead roles, and Awam Amkpa for Best Director, with Gabriel Afolayan and Mercy Aigbe recognized in supporting roles, and Kayode Kasum receiving the Trailblazer Award.
Complete List of 2026 Nominees
Best Digital Content Creator
\- Dr Judgina – Situationally Transmitted Delusion
\- Elozonam Ogbolu & Genoveva Umeh – Situationally Transmitted Delusion
\- Destiny Ogie Osarewinda – The Marriage List
\- Emmanuel Kanaga & Sophia Chisom – Leave To Live
\- Benedict Ehimare Oriaifo – The Rate Race
\- Maryam Apaokagi-Greene (Taaoma) – Luxury Koko
\- Steve Chuks – August Meeting Election
\- Akwaman – Did I Hear Muah
Best Indigenous Language (Southern Africa)
\- Bet I Love You – Joseph Duke, Keamogetse Modise
\- Sebata: The Beast
\- Ben Made It – Thabang Mathumetse, Thapelo Dikhutso
\- Terra of Queens and Kuma 2 – Neo Leonardo Mokoena
\- Tlhaho Ya Mosadi – Naledi Galane et al.
Best Supporting Actress
\- Linda Ejiofor – The Herd
\- Olamide Kidbaby – Oversabi Aunty
\- Bisola Aiyeola – Gingerrr
\- Sola Sobowale – The Covenant Series
\- Nadia Dutch – Aljana
\- Amal Umar – The Herd
\- Juliebrenda Nyambura – MTV Shuga Mashariki
\- Funke Akindele – Behind The Scene
Best Lead Actor
\- Mike Ezuruonye – Oversabi Aunty
\- Lateef Adedimeji – Lisabi: A Legend Is Born
\- William Benson – To Kill A Monkey
\- Kanayo O. Kanayo – Grandpa Must Obey
\- Khumbuza Meyiwa – Bet I Love You
\- Uzor Arukwe – Colours of Fire
\- Wale Ojo – 3 Cold Dishes
\- Femi Branch – Red Circle
And many more categories showcasing the breadth of talent and creativity across African film and television.
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