The most awaited announcement of the 10th edition of the AMVCA, Africa’s most prestigious award—took place on March 12, 2024. Star-studded attendees graced the MultiChoice Studios in Ilupeju, Lagos, for the occasion.
Following the inaugural ceremony in 2013, this edition will commemorate the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards’ tenth anniversary. The AMVCAs have produced approximately 27,000 long-term and temporary jobs over the course of the last 10 editions, investing N9 billion on award ceremonies, training, and logistics. More than 300 African actors, directors, and other professionals in the cinema and television industries have also been awarded by the awards.
Speaking at the press event, the Executive Head of Content and West Africa Channels at MultiChoice, Dr Busola Tejumola, commented, “Over the past ten years, the AMVCA has become a beacon of excellence, recognising, and honouring outstanding talent, creativity, and dedication within the African film and television landscape. This year, in partnership with our sponsors, we have reimagined the AMVCAs to make the Awards more reflective of the times, and it is clear the industry was excited with these changes”.
Ace filmmaker, director, producer, pioneer Academy Director of the MultiChoice Talent Factory and long-time head of the AMVCA jury, Femi Odugbemi, shared some insight into the new changes the awards will be undergoing this year. He said, “The number of categories for entries will now be 27, accompanied by two special recognition awards. The performance awards have undergone streamlining and will fall under the categories of Best Actor or Best Actress in a Lead or Supporting Role. The jury will determine the winners in these categories, deviating from the previous public voting system. As always, Deloitte will verify the voting process and results.”
The jury, in conjunction with Deloitte, determines the nominations for the AMVCAs by specific criteria and processes. Some of these criteria include the eligibility period, the category submitted to, jury votes, the film’s quality and its socio-cultural impact.
Dr Tejumola noted, “Our Head Judge and the jury will present the nominees to you on Sunday, 24th March 2024. This year, the industry will celebrate the AMVCAs on May 10 and 11, 2024, in a 2-Day event filled with the many activities we’ve all come to love. Day 1 will have the Young Filmmakers & Content Creators’ event and the Opening Night – a celebration of culture and fashion and a time to honour our esteemed nominees. We will host the grand finale live – the AMVCA Award Night on May 11, 2024.”
The AMVCAs have played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative of African cinema, providing a platform for diverse voices and stories that resonate with audiences far and wide. This annual celebration has not only elevated the visibility of African talent but has also fostered a sense of unity and pride within the industry.
To this end, Nollywood stars joined the press at the announcement event in a show of support for the organisers, Africa Magic and MultiChoice. Flawsome stars Bisola Aiyeola, Ini Dima-Okojie, and Sharon Ooja glowed at the event, alongside AMVCA longtime host IK Osakioduwa and Big Brother Naija host Ebuka Obi-Uchendu. Other guests at the event included Ireti Doyle, Carol King, Jidekene Achufusi, Uti Nwachukwu, Akin Faminu, Ray Adeka, Modesinuola Ogundiwin, and JSmile Uhuru.
