AMVCA 2025: Spotlighting African Excellence in Film
The 11th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), held on May 10, 2025, in Lagos, was more than just another red carpet affair, it was a brilliant convergence of culture, fashion, and the undeniable power of African storytelling.
From historic wins to jaw dropping style moments, this year’s AMVCAs reminded us why the African entertainment and fashion industries remain forces to be reckoned with globally.
A Runway of Royalty: Fashion as Cultural Expression
African fashion owned the night and not in a quiet way. At the 2025 AMVCA, the red carpet was a stunning showcase of couture, with each look speaking to the skill and artistry of Nigerian designers. The evening was marked by one breathtaking creation after another, as celebrities graced the event in meticulously crafted designs that blended high fashion with Nigerian craftsmanship. From sleek, contemporary silhouettes to dramatic couture gowns, each outfit was a work of art that told its own story. With the theme “Weather” guiding the night’s fashion, designers drew inspiration from the elements, translating them into striking ensembles that left the audience in awe. It was a celebration of the power of Nigerian talent and the artistry that continues to define the fashion industry.
The shift was clear: African stars are not just dressing up, they’re dressing with purpose.
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- Jemima Osunde dazzles in an Ambaosa gown at the AMVCA. Photo via @jemimaosunde on Instagram
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- Mike Afolarin in a custom T.I Nathan ensemble for the AMVCA. Photo via @mikeafolarin on Instagram
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- Toni Tones turns heads in Style Dejavuu, commanding the AMVCA. Photo via @iamtonitones on Instagram
And if you want the real breakdown of who slayed and who made statements, be sure to check out our FashionEVO Best Dressed Picks now live on our Instagram page. You’ll want to see these looks in all their regal detail.
Honoring the Icons: Winners Who Shaped the Night
The AMVCA remains the continent’s highest celebration of cinematic brilliance. Here’s a snapshot of some of the biggest wins from the night:
- Best Lead Actor: Femi Adebayo – Seven Doors
- Best Lead Actress: Chioma Chukwuka – Seven Doors
- Best Movie: Freedom Way by Blessing Uzzi
- Best Supporting Actor: Gabriel Afolayan – Inside Life
- Best Supporting Actress: Mercy Aigbe – Farmer’s Bride
- Best Indigenous Film (West Africa): Lisabi: The Uprising – Adedimeji Lateef & Adebimpe Oyebade
- Best Makeup: Lisabi: The Uprising – Hakeem Onilogbo
- Best Costume Design: Christmas in Lagos – Adedamola Adeyemi
- Best Cinematography: The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos – Leo Purman
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- Femi Adebayo with his AMVCA award, photo via BBC News Pidgin
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- Mercy Aigbe holding her AMVCA award. Photo via The Nation
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These wins tell a bigger story, one of progress, of craft, and of the growing global relevance of African cinema.
Icons and Trailblazers Take Their Flowers
The night paid homage to both legends and rising stars who continue to move the needle forward:
- Industry Merit Award: Sani Mu’azu and Nkem Owoh
- Trailblazer Award: Kayode Kasum
It’s this blend of respect for the past and momentum for the future that keeps Nollywood evolving with heart and grit.
From the runway to the big screen, from traditional drums to designer heels, the AMVCA 2025 was a celebration of who we are and what we’ve become: bold, creative, rooted, and rising. We’ll be watching to see what the stars bring next, but one thing is clear: Africa is not the future. Africa is now.
