Each year, the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCAs) bring together the finest talent in African film and television.
With 27 categories covering performance, production, storytelling, and innovation, the event is both a celebration and a spotlight.
While familiar names return for another chance at recognition, a new wave of nominees is stepping up, ready to make their mark. These first-time contenders are redefining storytelling across screens, genres, and formats.
As the countdown to 10 May 2025 begins, here’s a closer look at the fresh faces and creative minds making their AMVCA debut.
Uzoamaka Onuoha – Best Lead Actress (‘Agemo’)
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Uzoamaka Onuoha has earned her first AMVCA nomination for Best Lead Actress for her role in Agemo. The film, directed by Moshood Abiola Obatula, centres on Agatha, a woman navigating manipulation and political intrigue. Uzoamaka brings depth to her character, a performance that recently earned her the Best Actress award at the 2024 Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF). With previous roles in Blood Sisters and Visa on Arrival, her trajectory continues to grow.
Uche Montana – Best Lead Actress (‘Thin Line’)
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Uche Montana also enters the spotlight with a nomination for Best Lead Actress in Thin Line. In the film, she plays Annie, whose encounter with a respected preacher, Pastor Raymond, turns into blackmail. When Annie is later found dead, suspicion falls on Raymond. Uche’s portrayal of the chain reaction that follows adds weight to her nomination. Her film credits include The Masked King, with more work earning critical attention.
Darasimi Nadi – Best Supporting Actress (‘Aburo’)
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Darasimi Nadi is nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Aburo. Playing Rofi, the sister of a gifted street boy, she helps unfold a story where raw talent meets opportunity. The film explores Aburo’s dilemma—remain loyal to the streets or pursue a new path. Darasimi has featured in Obara’M, Tòkunbò, and The Pretty Ones Are the Loneliest, showing range across drama and social narratives.
Mike Afolarin – Best Supporting Actor (‘House of Ga’a’)
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Mike Afolarin is nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Oyemekun in House of Ga’a, set in the 18th-century Oyo Kingdom. As the son of the powerful Ga’a, Oyemekun’s story is one of love, loss, and revenge. His confrontation with his father leads to tragic consequences. Mike’s previous work includes Ajosepo, Soólè, Freedom Way, and Netflix’s Far From Home, making him one to watch.
Aliu Gafar – Best Supporting Actor (‘Seven Doors’)
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Aliu Gafar, also nominated for Best Supporting Actor, plays Esusu in Seven Doors. From his first appearance in Episode 2, his character introduces tension that unsettles the royal household. Esusu’s pact with Ọba Adejuwọn brings secrets to the surface. Aliu’s interpretation adds complexity to the story’s darker elements.
Gbubemi Ejeye – Best Lead Actress (‘Farmer’s Bride’)
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Gbubemi Ejeye is nominated for Best Lead Actress for her role in Farmer’s Bride, portraying Funmi, a young woman in an arranged marriage. Her bond with her husband’s nephew challenges social boundaries. Gbubemi has acted in Citation, All’s Fair In Love, and Far From Home, reflecting her consistent contribution to the screen.
Dorcas Ariyiike Owolagba (Ariyiike Dimples) – Best Digital Content Creator (‘Risky’)
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Dorcas Ariyiike Owolagba, known as Ariyiike Dimples, receives her first nomination for Best Digital Content Creator with Risky. The series follows a woman navigating dating and relationships with unusual confidence. Her character’s choices provoke both laughter and reflection. Ariyiike’s work connects well with a digital audience that appreciates bold storytelling.
Prince Daniel Aboki – Best Indigenous Language (West Africa) (‘Kaka’ and ‘Mai Martaba’)
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Prince Daniel Aboki has two nominations for Best Indigenous Language (West Africa). Kaka follows a young girl who rejects traditional beliefs after a personal loss, while Mai Martaba portrays a kingdom facing internal conflict after a controversial royal decision. Both stories reflect rural realities and the tension between tradition and change.
Norman Maake – Director of ‘Inkabi’ (Multiple nominations including Best Director and Best Movie)
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Norman Maake, a South African director, is making his AMVCA debut with Inkabi, which has six nominations. The film is recognised for editing, cinematography, sound design, music score, directing, and Best Movie. Norman’s contribution highlights technical precision and narrative clarity.
Papama Tangela – Best Cinematography (‘Agemo’)
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Papama Tangela, nominated for Best Cinematography for Agemo, captures visual elements that strengthen the film’s atmosphere. His work supports storytelling without dominating it, helping audiences connect with each scene.
Jide ‘Pounds’ Ibitoye – Best Digital Content Creator (‘Abike Ati Asola’)
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Jide ‘Pounds’ Ibitoye is nominated for Best Digital Content Creator for Abike Ati Asola. The series follows two lovers caught in a triangular relationship. Jide’s focus on dialogue, gesture, and pacing strengthens the emotional impact. As an actor and digital storyteller, his dual role adds value to his nomination.
Opeyemi Sogeke – Best Costume Design (‘Phoenix Fury’)
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Opeyemi Sogeke is nominated for Best Costume Design for Phoenix Fury, where clothing reflects both culture and character development. Her designs contribute to building the film’s visual identity. Set in Ghana and led by a strong female character, the film examines themes of legacy and resilience.
Iyo Prosper Adokiye – Best Digital Content Creator (‘We Listen, We Don’t Judge: Bible Edition’)
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Iyo Prosper Adokiye joins the list of digital creators recognised this year with We Listen, We Don’t Judge: Bible Edition. Through modern interpretations of well-known religious stories, the show uses humour to draw parallels between ancient characters and today’s challenges. Iyo’s creative lens bridges entertainment and commentary.
Omolola Lamikanra – Best Writing in a Movie (‘Skeleton Coast’)
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Omolola Lamikanra is nominated for Best Writing for Skeleton Coast, a pan-African film about a team of scientists in search of a legendary gem. As the quest deepens, they discover more than expected. Omolola’s screenplay guides viewers through suspense and reflection, highlighting collaboration across African borders.
Seoli Bongani Mashaba – Best Score/Music (‘Inkabi’)
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Seoli Bongani Mashaba, a South African composer and founder of Seoli Music, is nominated for Best Score/Music for his work on Inkabi. His contribution shapes the film’s rhythm, supporting tension and emotion without overpowering the scene.