The veteran Nigerian actress, Joke Silva, has been announced as the head judge for the 2026 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Silva described the 12th edition as a landmark moment, noting that it introduces new categories representing North and Central Africa.
“It is with a deep sense of responsibility that I assume the role of head judge for the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards,” she said.
“Over the years, the AMVCA has grown far beyond an award ceremony; it has become an important cultural institution.”
The 64-year-old highlighted the platform’s role in recognising excellence in African film and television while celebrating the creatives shaping the industry.
“This year marks a defining moment in the evolution of the awards,” she added.
“With the inclusion of categories representing North and Central Africa, the AMVCA expands its reach to fully reflect the depth and diversity of storytelling across our continent.”
Silva stressed that the judging process would uphold fairness, credibility, and professionalism.
“From Lagos to Cairo, Nairobi to Johannesburg and Dakar, African stories are being with extraordinary imaginations. At the AMVCA, this excellence is carefully recongnised through a rigorous jury process. As head judge, alongside the distinguished panel of jurors, those from across the industry,” she said.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that the adjudication process reflects the highest standard of fairness, credibility and professional integrity. Our role as jurors is not simply to award visibility or popularity, but to honour the depth of craft and the mastery of storytelling that continues to elevate African cinema on the global stage.
“The AMVCA stands as a celebration of this collective excellence. It is a celebration of our cultures, creativity and the powerful stories that define who we are as a continent.”
Also speaking, Segun Ogunleye, head of marketing for Africa partner markets at Diageo, described the partnership with Don Julio as a milestone.
“We are marking a significant milestone with this partnership,” he said.
“It reflects not only the strength and diversity of our brands but also our commitment to showing up for consumers in moments of celebration, recognition, and shared cultural pride.”
This year marks Diageo’s first full-portfolio sponsorship of the AMVCA, with Don Julio as the headline sponsor, alongside other brands such as Johnny Walker and Singleton.
Nominees for the 12th edition will be announced on March 29, 2026, with actor Chimezie Imo set to host. The awards ceremony will be held in Lagos in May 2026, with further details expected in the coming months.