amvca | Zikoko!

The African Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCAs) 2024 is a double celebration — a celebration of excellence in the African film industry and the marking of a decade doing it. These are the nominees for the foremost Nigerian film awards as it marks such an important milestone.

Best Digital Content

National Treasure – Adebola Adeyela (Lizzy Jay)

Medical Negligence and Copyright Infringement – Isaac Ayomide Olayiwola (Layi Wasabi)

Hello Neighbour – Elozonam Ogbolu, Lina Idoko and Jemima Osunde

The Boyfriend – Maryam Apaokagi-Greene

Best Indigenous Language Film (West Africa)

Mami Wata (CJ Fiery Obasi)

Jagun Jagun (Femi Adebayo)

Ijogbon (Kunle Afolayan)

Orisa (Odunlade Adekola)

Nana Akoto (Kwabena Gyansah)

Best Indigenous Language (East Africa)

Where The River Divides

Ormoilaa Ogol (The Strong One)

Wandongwa

Nakupenda

Itifaki

Best Indigenous Language (South Africa)

Service To Heart

Uncle Limbani

Motshameko O Kotsi

Best Multichoice Talent Factory Movie

Grown

Her Dark Past

Somewhere in Kole

Full-Time Husband

The 11th Commandment

Mfumukazi

Best Scripted M-Net Original

Slum King

Half Open Window

Itura

The Passenger

Magic Room

Best Unscripted M-Net Original

What Will People Say

The Irabors’ Forever After

Nwuyee Bekee (Foreign Wives)

Date My Family Zambia

Royal Qlique (Season 2)

Best Indigenous M-Net Original

The Passenger

Nana Akoto

Apo

Irora Iya

Love Transfusion (Kiapo Cha Damu)

Best Short Film

T’egbon T’aburo

Broken Mask

Eighteenth Year

Man and Masquerades

A Place Called Forward

Best Supporting Actor

Alexx Ekubo (Afamefuna)

Demola Adedoyin (Breath of Life)

Ibrahim Yekini (Jagun Jagun: The Warrior)

Gregory Ojefua (This is Life)

Timini Egbuson (A Tribe Called Judah)

Levi Chikere (Blood Vessel)

Ropo Ewenla (Over the Bridge)

Best Supporting Actress

Joke Silva (Over the Bridge)

Fathia Williams (Jagun Jagun – The Warrior)

Bimbo Akintola (The Black Book)

Genoveva Umeh (Breath of Life)

Eliane Umuhire (Omen)

Tana Adelana (Ijogbon – Chaos)

Ejiro Onojaife (The Origin: Madam Koi Koi)

Best Lead Actor

Wale Ojo (Breath of Life)

Stan Nze (Afamefuna)

Marc Zinga (Omen)

Gideon Okeke (Egun)

David Ezekiel (Blood Vessel)

Richard Mofe Damijo (The Black Book)

Adedimeji Lateef (Jagun Jagun – The Warrior)

Gabriel Afolayan (This is Lagos)

Best Lead Actress

Segilola Ogidan (Over The Bridge)

Lucie Debay (Omen)

Omowunmi Dada (Asiri Ade)

Ireti Doyle (The Origin: Madam Koi Koi)

Adaobi Dibor (Blood Vessel)

Evelyne Ily (Mami Wata)

Kehinde Bankole (Adire)

Funke Akindele (A Tribe Called Judah)

Best Cinematography

Mami Wata

Blood Vessel

Over The Bridge

Breath of Life

Jagun Jagun (The Warrior)

Ijogbon (Chaos)

Omen

Best Editing

Chuka Ejorh And Onyekachi Banjo

Holmes Awa

Alex Kamau And Victor Obok

Dayo Nathaniel

Antonio Ribeiro

Nathan Delannoy

Best Sound Design

Ava Momoh (Over the Bridge)

Daniel Pellerin and Amin Bhatia (Kipkemboi)

Grey Jones Ossai x2 (Breathe of Life and Blood Vessel)

Samy Bardet (Mami Wata)

Best Art Direction

Blood Vessel (Victor Akpan)

Over The Bridge (Abisola Omolade)

Breath of Life (Okechukwu Frost Nwankwo, Kelechi Odu)

The Black Book (Pat Nebo and Chima Temple)

Jagun Jagun: The Warrior (Tunji Afolayan)

Mami Wata (C.J Fiery Obasi)

Omen (Eve Martin)

Best Costume Design

Over The Bridge – Demola Adeyemi

Fumilayo Ransome – Kuti (Bolanle Austen- Peters, Ituen Basi, Folake Coker, Clement Effanga)

Jagun Jagun (Lola Awe)

Mami Wata (Bunmi Demilola Fashina)

Breathe of Life (Daniel Obasi)

Best Makeup

Over The Bridge (Francesca Otaigbe)

Mami Wata (Campbell Precious Arebamen)

Mojisola (Hadizat Gambo)

Jagun Jagun (Hakeem Onilogbo)

A Tribe Called Judah (Feyisayo Oyebisi)

Best Writing TV series

Skinny Girls in Transit (S7)
Bunmi Ajakaiye
Ifeanyi Barbara Chidi
Abdul Tijani- Ahmed

Wura (S2)
Jeffery David Musa
Olumide Kuti
Esther Oyiza Kokori

Visa On Arrival
Bovi Ugboma

MTV Shuga Naija
The MTV Staying Alive Foundation

Volume
Mona Ombogo

Masquerades of Aniedo
Timendo Aghahowa
Motunde Akiode

Slum King
Donald Tombia
Ifeanyi Barbara Chidi
Fatimah Binta Gimsay
Xavier Ighordje

Best Writing Movie

Breathe Of Life – BB Sasore
Over The Bridge – Tosin Otudeko
Fumilayo Ransome Kuti – Tunde Babalola
Jagun Jagun – Adebayo Tijani
Afamefuna – Anyanwu Sandra Adaora
ATCJ – Funke Ayotunde Akindele, Collins Okoh & Akinlabi Ishola
Mami Wata – CJ Obasi

Best Documentary

Ormoilaa Ogol (The Strong One)
Lobola – A Bride’s True Price?
Empalikino (Forgiveness)
The Water Manifesto: Osun (Water For Gold)
Sowing Hope

Best Series (Scripted)

Volume
Wura (s2)
Slum King
Itura
Chronicles

Best Series (Unscripted)

Lol Naija (s1)

Nightlife in Lasgidi

The Real Housewives of Lagos

GH Queens (s2)

Mutale Mwanza Unscripted (s1)

Best Director

Moses Inwang (Blood Vessel)
Adebayo Tijani & Tope Adebayo (Jagun Jagun)
BB Sasore (Breath of Life)
Johnscott Enah (Half Heaven)
C. J. Fiery Obasi ( Mami Wata)
Kayode Kasum (Afamefuna)
Tolu Ajayi (Over The Bridge)

Best Movie

Breath of Life

Over The Bridge

Blood Vessel

A Tribe Called Judah

The Black Book

Mami Wata

You May Have Your List of Most-Likely Winners, But We Made Some Prophecies You Should Watch Out For

Tomide Marv

May 11, 2024

Pop

African cinema, amvca, AMVCA 2024, awards, Films, Nollywood, Nominations
The African Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards (AMVCAs) are here again, and there’s much to expect from the biggest night in Nollywood. Aside from the glitz, glamour and celebration, one key reason we’ll be glued to our screens is to watch who wins which award.

While the potential winners are probably somewhere making the last fittings to their fits, here are our prophecies of actors, creators and movies that’ll win each major category — purely according to sentiments and a strange dream where an ant showed us the future.

Layi Wasabi — Best Digital Content Creator

Our dreams can be funny, but if the big suit we saw is anything to go by, Layi should win this award. He is nominated alongside Adebola Adeyela (Lizzy Jay), Maryam Apaokagi-Greene (Taooma), Jemima Osunde and Elozonam. But barely three years in, Layi has set the bar high with out-of-the-box ideas. It is the law we’re talking about here.

“Jagun Jagun” — Best Indigenous Language Film (West Africa)

We saw masquerades in this same dream, and it could only mean one thing. If not for the storyline, this epic movie must take home the prize for the fight scenes, tree names and cliffhanger. It was also the talk of the town for ages, and the ensemble casting couldn’t have been better imagined.

Timini Egbuson — Best Supporting Actor

He’s underrated for his role in “A Tribe Called Judah”, but he carried the plot, as he does with all his movies. It initially looked like he’d play bad boy throughout the movie, but after the robbery, he became the voice of reason. Without him, his family would’ve never escaped. A close contender would be Demola Adedoyin in “Breath of Life”, but the dream did not reveal him to us.

Joke Silva — Best Supporting Actress

We didn’t need the dream to show us that Aunty Joke deserves more, but for now, “best supporting actress” will do. Her character in “Over the Bridge” had our non-existent edges snatched. Her poise and grace mixed well with the ruthless personality she played. And whoever was in charge of her costume deserves a raise this instant.

Stan Nze — Best Lead Actor

Just because we think “Afamefuna” was better put together than “Jagun Jagun”, we can leave Adedimeji Lateef and side with Stan Nze for this award. He is very relatable as the Igbo man next door. The whole movie is nostalgic, real and embraces modern African culture.

Ireti Doyle — Best Lead Actress

It would be iconic to see Funke Akindele win this, but our dream was very specific about Ireti Doyle winning. Never could we have imagined her playing a toxic Catholic nun as she did in “The Original Madam Koi Koi”. She embodied it perfectly and truly took centre stage in the movie.

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Ola Cardoso — Best Cinematography

Great as it was, not all of “Jagun Jagun’s” tricks were perfectly executed, “Ijogbon” could take several notes. While the other movies seemed brilliant, “Breath of Life” screamed excellence. So Cardoso deserves his flowers.

“A Tribe Called Judah” — Best Movie

We were leaning towards “Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti” in this category for the plot, nostalgia, casting and great storytelling. But after the dream, we have to admit that “A Tribe Called Judah” had perfectly crafted scenes and stunts. And if there’s one thing the film killed, it’s the suspense. Let’s not forget it did the biggest box office numbers in Nollywood in a long time. Props to Funke Akindele and Zikoko’s dream — which you can definitely trust.

“Wura” — Best Scripted Series

“Wura” seems to want to take over “Tinsel’s” mantle of running with no end in sight, but it is arguably the best pick for a late night show with the family.

“The Real Housewives of Lagos” (S2) – Best Unscripted Series

Best in real-life drama and chaos, RHOL had us hooked with the fashion and social media trends.

For a recap ahead of Sunday: AMVCA 2023: The Big Winners and the People Who Should’ve Won.

Raymond Temituro

May 10, 2024

Pop

amvca, awards, Nigeria, Nollywood
Once again, Fashion meets Tech in the just concluded AMVCA awards, and TECNO opened the world to a new style of endless possibility. While honoring exceptional artistic achievements and craft, we are proud to grace the runway and be part of the elegant designers’ fantastic moments and unique designs.

From the night stars, nominees, and even movies, the air was filled with elegant moments, brand showcases, and fabulous styles from the ever-consistent and long-standing DRIK, sleek and stylish DYZN, and the avant-garde and eclectic pieces by FIA Designs. Treat yourself to fantastic images from the night, and let us know your best designs.

Partner

May 24, 2023

Announcements

amvca, Partner Content, tecno
The 2023 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Award (AMVCA) might’ve come and gone, but everyone is still talking about the fashion moments and awards that went to the wrong “African filmmakers”.

It’s important to note that the award is mostly fan-voted, so in the end, it’s a popularity contest. If people don’t vote for their fave, there’s a high chance they won’t win. That said, as someone who watched almost 80% of the films nominated and awarded, here’s my hot take.

Best Actress in a Drama (Movie/TV Series)

Source: Netflix

Who Won: Osas Ighodaro for Man of God

Who Should’ve Won: Bimbo Ademoye for Anikulapo or Ini Edo for Shanty Town

No award shocked the audience more than Osas Ighodaro’s Best Actress in a Drama win for Man of God. The actress picked up her second consecutive win in this category after winning in 2022 for Rattlesnake. While Osas has established herself as a movie star, this Best Actress win is a reach. Bimbo Ademoye’s arch as Queen Arolake in Anikulapo had more meat. I mean, this look alone has become an iconic meme:

Source: Netflix

Then there’s Ini Edo’s long-awaited return to form in Shanty Town, taking up dual roles and giving us one of her best performances in decades.

Source: Netflix

Shanty Town and Anikulapo could be better projects, but these women’s performances made them watchable. I can’t say the same for Osas Ighodaro, or Man of God, which happens to be one of the worst movies Netflix has ever released — and Chief Daddy 2 exists.

Best Actor in a Drama (Movie/TV Series)

Source: Prime Video

Who Won: Tobi Bakre for Brotherhood

Who Should’ve Won: Blossom Chukwujekwu for The Trade or Chidi Mokeme for Shanty Town

Tobi Bakre’s performance in Brotherhood is a masterclass in carrying a film on your back and making it your own. Breaking out of the “They just cast BBNaija housemates for clout” mould, Tobi proved to audiences that he’s not just a bankable name slapped across a movie for marketing. Knowing all this, I was actually stressed because I knew two other actors who deserved the award for giving the best performances Nollywood has seen in a long time.

Source: Netflix

No one can talk about TV shows this year without mentioning Chidi Mokeme’s terrifying turn as Scar in Shanty Town. Reminding us that no one does it better than the foundational members of Nollywood, Chidi completely morphed into his character, commanding every scene and frame he appeared in. Like Sola Sobowale’s Eniola Badmus, he didn’t just make us hate the villain he created; he made us curious to know more and understand how someone could get to that point of no return. Scar will go down in history as one of Nollywood’s most iconic villains.

Source: Prime Video

Like Chidi Mokeme, Blossom Chukwujekwu completely shocked audiences with his performance in Jade Osiberu’s The Trade. Another well-crafted villain, Blossom leaves everything on the screen, scaring and making us laugh at the same time. While the heavy Igbo accent might’ve sounded forced from some of his co-stars, with Blossom it sounded natural, like it’s the only way he’s spoken since birth. As an actor who’d shown great potential but was never offered a role he could sink his teeth into, this felt like Blossom’s moment.

Source: Netflix

By the way, why wasn’t Kunle Remi on the nomination list?

RECOMMENDED: 20 Crazy Questions Everyone Who’s Seen “Shanty Town” is Asking

Best Online Social Content Creator

Source: Africa Magic

Who Won: Elozonam and KieKie for Back From the Future

Who Should’ve Won: Bimbo Ademoye for Iya Barakat Teropi Secxxion

In a different world, Bimbo Ademoye should’ve been cradling multiple AMVCA statues at Saturday’s ceremony. Her online alter ego, Iya Barakat, was first introduced to audiences as one of the many characters created to market her many endorsements. However, Iya Barakat quickly won over an audience of loyal followers with each video, making way for the smash hit, Iya Barakat Teropi Secxxion. The series is hilarious AF, with everyone from Falz to Jemima Osunde making cameos.

Source: YouTube

Although Elozonam created an exciting project with Back from the Future, neither the show nor the episode with KieKie carries the same level of humour or genuine heart as Iya Barakat Teropi Secxxion. Iya Barakat is the Ted Lasso to Bimbo Ademoye’s Jason Sudeikis, and it totally deserved this award.

Best Costume Designer

Source: Zikoko Memes

Who Won: Adeola Art Alade for The Real Housewives of Lagos Reunion

Who Should’ve Won: Toyin Ogundeji for Anikulapo

As a Real Housewives of Lagos die-hard stan, it’s killing me to say this, but “What?!” How did RHOL win over Anikulapo in the costume department? I know my girls served during that reunion, but it pales in comparison to the research and intentionality behind the looks in Anikulapo. The intricate detailing of the aso-ofis had me gagging. Anikulapo served cunt in iro and bubas.

Best Writer

Source: Netflix

Who Won: Sola Dada for Anikulapo

Who Should’ve Won: Sodi Kurubo, Stephanie Dadet and Victor Aghahowa – Diiche (Episode 5)

Kunle Afolayan’s Anikulapo was a major moment for Nollywood. The sheer ambition and scale of the epic made it a subject of conversation months after it was released. However, the fifth episode of Diiche is by far one of the greatest episodes of Nigerian TV ever. Like, no contest.

Source: Showmax

Providing an interesting backstory that solves a puzzle even the audience wasn’t fully aware of, the Ifeoma Chukwuogo-directed episode takes a simple story that’s been told over and over again in Nollywood, and makes it more impactful for a new generation. If for no other reason, Diiche should’ve taken the award for being a more cohesive story than Anikulapo.

Best Director

Source: Prime Video

Who Won: Loukman Ali for Brotherhood

Who Should’ve Won: Jade Osiberu for The Trade

Source: Prime Video

Jay-Z once said, “Nobody wins when the family feuds,” and honestly, I get it. This category was hard for me as a fan of both movies and their directors. However, remove the showy stunts, explosions and shootouts on bridges from Brotherhood, and we’ll all agree The Trade had more meat. The pacing, Jade Osiberu’s script, Blossom Chukwujekwu’s acting and the project’s ability to make us root for a serial kidnapper/killer? Chelsea, come on now. The Trade deserved more love at the AMVCAs, and Jade deserved a Best Director trophy, especially considering that this film was shot back in 2019.

ALSO READ: How to Make a Badass Nollywood Action Film, According to “Brotherhood” Scriptwriter, Abdul Tijani-Ahmed

Conrad Johnson-Omodiagbe

May 22, 2023

Movies & TV, Pop

amvca, awards, Nigerian films, Nollywood
Nothing says glitz and glamour (with a sprinkle of chaos) like the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA) red carpet.

With the 2023 edition set to take place on May 20, we look back at some of the fashion moments that’ve taken our breath away since the award show first premiered in March 2013.

Genevieve Nnaji (2013)

This Bridget Awosika piece caused quite a scandal when Genevieve wore it to the maiden edition of the AMVCAs back in 2013. But making a massive statement on the red carpet that night, your favourite actress’s favourite actress looked every bit like the movie star she is. This was a major fashion moment in Nollywood at the time.

Somkele Iyamah (2017)

Somkele Iyamah was and still is a fashion girly. No one wears her sister, Andrea Iyamah’s eponymous line like Somkele does. The colour, the cut, her hair, everything works out with this look. Somkele not only won the trailblazer award that night, but she also won on the red carpet.

Denola Grey (2022)

Denola Grey walked away as the best-dressed male star in 2022 and absolutely deserved it.

Do you know who also deserved an award for serving cunt in a way that pleases the Lord, while wearing a suit that looks like it’s falling apart?

Yes, Denola again, for this look from 2020.

Nana Akua Addo (2020)

We can’t talk about iconic AMVCA fashion moments without talking about Nana Akua Addo in Gaurav Gupta back in 2020. We can argue about Ghanaian and Nigerian jollof from now till tomorrow, but no one can argue about this look. Nana represented the Gold Coast and left everyone gagging.

Erica Nlewedim (2022)

How many yards did Erica’s designer use to make this dress? This is Erica’s best AMVCA look yet, and one of our favourite AMVCA looks of all time.

Toni Tones (2018)

Toni has always been a badass, and this dramatic, high-slit take on a fairytale ball gown is exactly what we’d expect a badass to wear to the AMVCAs.

Nancy Isime (2022)

As the kids on Twitter say, this look is “urethral”. Nancy Isime served so hard at the AMVCA in 2022, we didn’t even have to eat physical food to be satisfied.

Ebuka Obi-Uchendu (2018)

Whether he’s trying to upstage a groom in a burgundy agbada or cosplaying as Angel Gabriel in all white, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu will always be a man after our hearts. This look might look simple and boring, but not every man can pull off an all-white suit with the level of finesse Ebuka displayed in 2018.

Adesua Etomi (2022)

It’s giving a phoenix rising from the ashes. It’s giving Katniss Everdeen promo tour. It’s giving fashion it-girl. Adesua Etomi, the woman that you are?

Eku Edewor (2013)

The first edition had more misses than hits on the red carpet. However, one star has owned it since day one. Eku Edewor is on every fashion girl’s mood board because she understands timeless fashion. I mean, this Clan dress and bob from 2013 looks like it was worn yesterday.

ALSO READ: What Were They Thinking? We Rank the Most Chaotic AMVCA Looks

Bonang Matheba (2022)

Bonang, ma pi now. This look was simply divine, and we’re blessed to have witnessed it.

Sola Sobowale (2020)

I hope we all know purple is the colour of royalty. A fitting look for the king of boys.

Tope Tedela (2022)

A Nigerian man who’s not a designer or influencer taking fashion risks? Inject it, please. The shade of green and fabric choice all work well to earn the actor a spot on this list of our all-time faves.

Can you handle the hotness of Zikoko’s women’s only party of the year, HERtitude?

Click here to buy your ticket and find out.

Osas Ighodaro (2022)

Look at the material. How can you not want to crown Osas best in fashion? This is a look that had everyone shook in 2022.

Rita Dominic (2018)

She is an icon. She is a legend. And she’ll always be the moment with this royal blue look. What would the AMVCA red carpet be without Rita Dominic? Boring.

Idia Aisien (2020)

Something about this outfit on Idia Aisien reminds us of Kim Kardashian, and that’s a good thing in our book. Face is a ten. Body is a ten. Outfit is a ten. What else do you want? Like Beyoncé once said, “Ten. Ten. Ten. Across the board.”

Sika Osei (2022)

The detailing on this dress made me fall to my knees in the middle of the road screaming, “What?” The corset and sheer illusion are so intricate it looks like art. Come on, Picasso.

KieKie (2022)

This orange on her skin, the dramatic sleeves, and don’t get us started on the “show me your stomach” cutout. KieKie ate and left no crumbs.

Adebayo Oke-Lawal

Classic man in mustard? We love to see it.

Ini Dima-Okojie (2020)

I love this Mazelle dress, but I’m here for the Tower of Babel hair. Why bother winning an award when you have one on your head?

Uti Nwachukwu (2022)

The days of men doing the bare minimum on the red carpet are over. Ditch the overplayed black tux, or overly velvet suits that look like rugs, and give me something colourful and bold like Uti Nwachukwu.

ALSO READ: 20 of the Best, Mid and Worst Looks From the 2023 MET Gala

Conrad Johnson-Omodiagbe

May 20, 2023

Fashion, Pop

amvca, award show, best dressed, Fashion
I’m not the biggest fan of fashion reviews, but since Nollywood has refused to let me rest, I’ll do my best to call out the criminal fashion moments. Let’s start with the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCAs) red carpet that went down this past weekend. While I was blown away by outfits like Denola Grey’s and Stargirl Erica’s, there were so many other questionable looks that had me confused.

Let’s get into it, yuh!

13. Toyin Lawani aka Tiannah Styling

We all pray that affliction will not rise again, but somehow, Toyin Lawani never fails to rise from the ashes like an insanely-dressed phoenix — or in this case, salah ram. I truly miss the days of hot Illuminati conspiracy theories because this dress would’ve made all the Illuminati believers foam at the mouth in excitement. You just have to stan her consistency, though. Just when we think it can’t get worse, she raises the bar. Iconic.

12. Ifuennada from Big Brother Naija

I didn’t want to talk about Tiannah before, but I can’t hold it back anymore. What is this? This Junior Waec fine art project allegedly cost $100,000 (roughly ₦56,000,000) and honestly, I want to fight. Because, how? How, sis? Ifuennada has said that we’re stupid and don’t understand her high fashion lewk because we’re broke. Well, if this is fashion, I’d like to remain dumb.

11. James Brown

Tell me you just finished binging Bridgerton without telling me you just finished binging Bridgerton. I absolutely love the Princess of Africow, but this look is not giving what she thought it was giving. Sorry Jameson Featherington, this regency era colonizer fit is not it.

10. Simi Drey

In this heat? Someone needs to ask Ikeja Kim Kardashian the motive behind this look because I’m genuinely concerned. The worst part is not the weird peplum or strange embellishments, it’s the shoes and leggings/socks combo. Imagine dressing like a Mount Zion movie’s version of Satan just to wear choir shoes. I can’t even.

9. Denrele Edun

Denrele, I love you, but even God rested on the seventh day. Abeg, rest.

8. Belinda Effa

I was wondering why this dress looked familiar. But then I remembered those children’s birthday cakes that have a barbie doll in the middle, and it all made sense. How does the song go again? “I’m a Barbie girl, in a Barbie world, Lagos traffic—it’s hectic.”

7. Pretty Mike

Another MET Gala thief. If I said I didn’t live for Pretty Mike’s theatrics, I’d be a liar and a detty bitch! This guy made a Lagos version of Alicia Keys’ MET Gala outfit, threw a bedside lamp on his head and brought a baby goat with him to the red carpet. It’s so bad, it’s actually good. Pretty Mike looked camp in the eye when he put this Power Ranger villain costume on. Definitely the male version of Toyin Lawani for sure.

RECOMMENDED: 15 Celebrities Who Understood the AMVCA Assignment

6. Adedimeji and Bimpe Lateef

Tiannah, the evil you have done, is it not enough? This outfit looks like a tie and dye bathing sponge and is upsetting me and my homegirls. Her husband actually looks good, but if marriage is truly for better and for worse, he must bear this cross too. You can’t slay and allow your wife to look like she fell in a pot of purple watercolour. This is why you can’t trust men.

5. Niyi Lawal

I’m not sure why this outfit is not working for me, but I know my spirit is unsettled. Can he breathe properly? I’m so concerned. Alexa, please play Waiting to Exhale by Whitney Houston.

4. Caroline or Carolyna Hutchings

Now that she’s kidnapped, dyed and sewn all the mosquito nets in Nigeria to her outfit, how are we supposed to fight malaria as a country? Carolyna, these are the things you should think about. We all love drama on the red carpet, but like Davido said, “Caroline, save your drama, I don’t need it for the soap opera.”

3. Emmanuel from Big Brother Naija

Subzero meets Mask of Zorro. This outfit would’ve been killer if he didn’t attach that transparent batman cape or the mask. Nigerian men can never stay in the middle. It’s either they’re doing too much on the red carpet or giving nothing at all.

2. Timini Egbuson

This is giving British secondary school head boy, and I can’t move past it. Why is everyone dressing like they were invited to the MET Gala or a Bridgerton audition?

1. Ebuka Obi-Uchendu

I know what you’re thinking, “Why is Ebuka on this list?” We all know Ebuka is one of the best dressed Nigerian celebrities, but can someone please ask my fave why he decided to wear this boring-ass suit after all these years of killing it on the red carpet? I’m perplexed, gobsmacked, and stressed. He’s on this list because he set a high bar and went ahead to fall my hand. It’s your fault, Ebuka. It’s all your fault.

ALSO READ: 15 Celebrities Who Understood the AMVCA Assignment

Conrad Johnson-Omodiagbe

May 16, 2022

Pop

amvca, Fashion, Nollywood
For those who don’t know, last night was the 2022 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA 8) Gala Night. There was no theme, but we expected the attending celebrities to show up at their glamorous best to celebrate Nollywood’s biggest night and winners.

Most of the stars got the memo and dressed accordingly, but in no particular order, here are the looks from the red carpet that completely raised the stakes.

RELATED: What Were They Thinking? We Rank the Most Chaotic AMVCA 2022 Looks

Erica Nweledim’s “Imperial Majesty” Lewk

I know I wrote “in no particular order”, but let’s start with the very best, shall we? From the ethereal aqua colour, the inspired take on ruched pleats, to the beautiful mermaid silhouette and extravagant train, this look wasn’t just glamorous, it also resembled the decadence once saved for imperial royalty — the only thing missing being some obscene jewellery. Were those butterflies or birds on the bottom right side of her dress?

Caroline Danjuma’s take on the babydoll dress

There’s something about the colour palette of this look that screams, “soft life”. Do you know what I mean? The resplendent tulle cape was everything, but the bejewelled lace dress and elegant up-do played their parts to make this a definite AMVCA red-carpet serve.

Tope Tedela’s immaculate couture moment

Choice of colour and quality tailoring are everything, and Tope’s look proves it. These factors turned what should have been a basic tuxedo suit into immaculate couture. And then, the detail on the jacket… Just look at it!

Nancy Isime’s beaded ode to American 1920s glamour

Who knew beads and lace could work so well together? Nancy and her stylist, obvi. The American ‘20s may have inspired the full look, but the bottom of the dress is giving Egyptian loin-cloth vibes. In fact, something about this AMVCA look screams ancient African royalty. Am I the only one who thinks “Osun river goddess” when I look at the white beads draped over her lower arms long enough?

Susan Pwajok’s simple pearled elegance

It may seem simple but look at the details on this dress?! The beaded corset with the elaborate lace trimmings at the top and the sheer lace covering the bottom, all while taking the risk of letting her sleek weave down. This Gen-Z small-screen queen may be signalling the start of her red-carpet reign with this look, and we’re absolutely here for it.

Denola Grey’s tailored tailcoat tuxedo… without the tail

If Denola Grey isn’t on this list, is it even a celebrity best-dressed list? He arrived at the AMVCA to prove once again that he doesn’t enter these lists based on old glory. Denola knows style like the back of his hands, and he makes his own trends. This old-timey silver-leaf-embroidered tuxedo jacket with its dark-red satin co-ords is just another example of this fact.

Michelle Dede’s demure army-green pleats

Green is such an underrated colour, and you can’t tell me otherwise. There’s something just immaculate and elegant about the greens, especially the darker shades. This regal off-shoulder number gives major “power” and “wealth” vibes, everything we need to see on a talented celebrity. Those sleeves are perfection too. Thank you for blessing us with this look, Michelle.

RELATED: This Little Girl’s Take On The Best AMVCA Outfits Is The Cutest Thing You’ll See This Week

Nonye Udeogu’s pink princess ball gown

My God! It’s the accordion pleats of the ball gown bottom for me with this look. The framed corset and open-finger gloves are beautiful as well, while the perky ponytail and clean silver jewellery tie the pretty look together like a nice Fuschia-pink bow.

Nonso Bassey’s “gilded” ensemble

If Nonso had taken this look to this year’s MET Gala, he would’ve been closer — if too literal — than most, to the theme, Gilded Glamour. That being said, this sequined top and bottom could’ve been too much, but somehow, it wasn’t.

Osas Ighodaro’s official “best-dressed” winner

AMVCA crowned her “best-dressed” — and Best Actress in a Drama — so who am I not to put her on my list? This grey diamanté look is simply stunning with the see-through, body-moulding silhouette and layered tail, but what did we expect from the stylish actress?

Enioluwa Adeoluwa’s embroidered royal wedding suit

Enioluwa could’ve easily replaced Meghan’s Prince Harry at their wedding with this suit. The gold embroidery on the jacket was everything, and the gold-side dress pants were the perfect complement. But what about the black gloves, the gold rings, the hair dye and cut, the dark-red socks? Perfection from head to toe, my guy! Let this be a case for more NextGen stars to be invited for these major events (a full article on this may just be coming soon).

Toke Makinwa’s tulle bombshell second lewk

A bombshell any day, Tok Star kills once again with this particular look, her second for the night. Her first and major look was nice, I guess, but this one steps away from her usual style, and she still bodied it! The stoned neck and panelled waistline bring the whole look together without doing too much. And I don’t know what that piece of tulle is behind her neck and shoulders, but I love it!

Tacha Akide’s silver goddess vibes

I don’t know if Tacha is aware, but this was the perfect homage to her riverine roots. She looked like a marine goddess in this, with the deep-ocean hue, metallic “scales” and mermaid silhouette of the dress. The Chinese bun and sticks deviated from the cultural program, but I love an afro-oriental fusion any day. Don’t get me started with those shoulder pads, please.

Uti Nwachukwu’s stainless royal blue

It’s a clean, well-tailored suit that stands out like no other. This might be because the lack of lapels make it different from the rest, without being outlandish, or because royal blue is my favourite colour. Either way, something was working here. But shaa, the men need to step up in this red-carpet game.

Bonang Matheba’s hostess with the “mostest” energy

This South African media personality had up to three looks for the AMVCA, and they all killed. Period. And that’s on saving the best for last.

It’s a wrap. Do you agree with this list? Let us know if we got it to a tee, or who you think should/shouldn’t have made it here.

RELATED: What Were They Thinking? We Rank the Most Chaotic AMVCA 2022 Looks

Lolade Alaka

May 15, 2022

Fashion, Pop

amvca, AMVCA 2022, Nigerian, Nollywood
The nominees for the 7th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards were announced last night, the 6th of February, 2020. A lot of your favourite movies were nominated along with movies I’m pretty sure you’ve never heard of. The movies, God Calling and Living In Bondage: Breaking Free have the most nominations with 10 each. Up next was Ratnik with 6 nominations. King of Boys, Seven, and Elevator Baby have 6 nominations each.

In the acting categories, Zainab Balogun pulled a Scarlet Johansson and scored two nominations in the Best Actress in a Drama (Movie/TV Series) for her performances in God Calling and Sylvia. Ramsey Nouah scored three acting nominations for his performances in Merry Men 1, Living in Bondage: Breaking Free, and Levi.

There were nominations we all saw coming (Swanky JKA for LIB, Sola Sobowale, Reminisce, and Toni Tones for KOB) and nominations that had us go, “When did that movie come out?”. Like Ramsey Nouah’s Best Actor in a Drama nomination for a Levi (the movie’s only nomination).

Keep scrolling to see the full AMVCA 2020 nominations list:

PUBLIC VOTING

Best Actor in a Comedy (Movie or TV Series)

Uzor Arukwe – Smash
Chibunna “Funny Bone” Stanley – Smash
Uzor Arukwe – Size 12
Ramsey Nouah – Merry Men 1
Etim Effiong – Plan B Daniel

Best Actress in a Comedy (Movie/TV Series)

Toyin Abraham – Bling Lagosians
Bimbo Ademoye – Looking For Baami
Funke Akindele – Moms At War
Toyin Abraham – Kasanova
Ebele Okaro – Smash

Best Actor in a Drama (Movie/TV Series)

Swankey J.K.A – Living In Bondage
Timini Egbuson – Elevator Baby
Efa Iwara – Seven
Gabriel Afolayan – Coming From Insanity
Ramsey Nouah – Levi

Best Actress in a Drama (Movie/TV Series)

Shola Shobowale – King Of Boys
Zainab Balogun – Sylvia
Zainab Balogun – God Calling
Toyin Abraham – Elevator Baby
Kate Henshaw – The Ghost And The House Of Truth

Best Supporting Actor in a Movie or TV Series

Damijo (Rmd) – Seven Richard Mofe
Ramsey Nouah – Living In Bondage
Nkem Owoh – God Calling
Remilekun ‘Reminisce’ Safaru – King Of Boys
Pascal Tokodi – Disconnect

Best Supporting Actress in a Movie or TV Series:

Toni Tones – King Of Boys
Eucharia Anunobi – The Foreigner’s God
Tina Mba – The Set-Up
Mary Lazarus – Size 12
Gloria Sarfo – The Perfect Picture: 10 Years Later

Best Short Film or Online Video:

Oga John – Bolanle Akintomide
Thorn – Bola ‘Enigma’ Akanbi
Prueba – Stanlee Ohikuhare
Tokunbo – Bio Arimoro

NON-PUBLIC VOTING

Best Cinematographer:

God Calling – Cardoso
Living In Bondage – John Demps
Ratnik – Niyi White, Gbenga Fifolabi and Abiola Ladipo
The Set Up – Mohammed Attah

Best Lighting Designer In A Movie Or TV Series:

God Calling – Cardoso
Ratnik – Abiola Ladipo
Elevator Baby – Eleaxu Texas
Plan B – Odhiambo Walter

Best Costume Designer Movie or TV Series:

Living In Bondage Olohigbe Nwagwu
The Foreigner’s God Ifan Michael
Ratnik Dimeji Ajibola
King Of Boys Yolanda Okereke

Best Make-Up Category:

God Calling – Lilian Omozele Paul
The Foreigner’s God – Jude Odoh
King Of Boys Hakeem Effects
Coming From Insanity – Bio Arimoro

Best Writer in a Movie or TV Series:

BB Sasore – God Calling
Tosin Igho – Seven
Vanessa Kanu – Sylvia
Biodun Stephen – Joba
Nicole Asinugo and CJ Obasi – Living In Bondage
Akay Mason and Yusuf Carew – Elevator Baby

Best Documentary:

Hidden Euphoria – Aderogba Adedeji
Skin – Beverly Naya
Against All Odds: A Tale Of Resilience – Aderemi Davies
Ibadan: Yoruba Heritage – Tunde Oladimeji

Best Indigenous Language Movie/TV Series Swahili:

Raveet Sippy Chadh – Subira
Timoth Conrad Kachumka – Sema
Victor Gatonye – Dream Child
Joan Kabugu – Toy Car

Best Indigenous Language Movie/TV Series Yoruba:

Ronke Odusanya – Ajoji Godogbo –
Yewande Famakin – Alubarika
Oyebade Adebimpe – Adebimpe Omo Oba
Wumi Olabimtan – Intent

Best Indigenous Language Movie/TV Series Hausa:

Tuntube – Muhammad T. Finisher
Mariya – Abubakar Bashir
Abarawa Rai – Muhammad Adam and Tundun Murtala
Sadauki – Hassan Giggs

Best Indigenous Language Movie/TV Series Igbo:

Isianyaocha – Brown Ene
Nekwa – Paul Igwe
Nne – Victor Iyke
Obiakpor – Evan Okechukwu

Best Movie Southern Africa:

Kukuri – Philippe Talavera
Dalitso – Abraham Kabwe
Kwacha – Cassie Kabwikta
The Beautiful Hen Behind Yao Mountain – Imran Kaisi

Best Movie East Africa:

Disconnect – Iman Mueke
Lost In Time – Edijoe Mwaniki
Plan B – Sarah Hassan
94 Terror – Mulinwa Richard

Best Movie West Africa:

God Calling – Momo Spaine
Seven – Tosin Igho
Elevator Baby – Victoria Akujobi
Living In Bondage – Steve Gukas
Ratnik – Dimeji Ajibola

Best Television Series Drama Or Comedy:

Jenifa’s Diary – Funke Akindele
Truth – Anis Halloway
Life As It Is – Uche Odoh
Women – Uchenna Mbunabo

Best Picture Editor:

God Calling – Holmes Awa
Ratnik – Dimeji Ajibola
Living In Bondage – Antonio Rebeiro
Seven – Tosin Igho and Bryan Dike
Elevator Baby – Emiola Fagbenle

Best Art Director Movie/TV Series:

Living In Bondage – Victor Afrigold, Ayanda Carter, Jim Franklin, Zimasa Ndamase
Ratnik – Dimeji Ajibola, Iwaotan Olusola Roberts
God Calling – Omotola Alade
The Bling Lagosians – Bolanle Austen Peters

Best Sound Track Movie/TV Series:

King Of Boys – Sess, Reminisce & Adekunle Gold – Original Gangster
Living In Bondage – Larry Gaga & Flavour – Tene
God Calling – Ighwiyisi Jacobs – Stay With Me
The Gift – Mercy Aghedo – The Gift
Run -Timzil – Run

Multichoice Talent Factor:

Life of Bim – West Africa
Dreamchaser – West Africa
Ensulo – East Africa
Promises – East Africa
Savana Skies – Southern Africa
The Painting – Southern Africa

Best Director:

Living In Bondage – Steve Gukas, Ramsey Nouah
God Calling – Bb Sasore
The Set-Up – Niyi Akinmolayan
King Of Boys – Kemi Adetiba
Ratnik – Dimeji Ajibola
The Ghost And The House Of Truth – Akin Omotosho
Seven – Tosin Igho

Astor George

February 7, 2020

Pop

amvca
1. Despite all the shade that followed this year’s AMVCA, some celebs obviously brought their A-game to the red carpet and we were so here for all the slay.

2. But the cutest thing about the AMVCA outfits however, is this little girl’s version of the gorgeous and talented Somekele’s outfit.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BRkmRAshrM8/

3. Modeling the dresses made by Woorah Collections, little Khadija looks stunning as the mini version of Adesua Etomi.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BRkmRAshrM8/?taken-by=woorahcreations

4. Let’s be honest, she wore Rita’s ‘futuristic’ dress better.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BRkgK35BZET/

What do you think of little Khadijah’s version of the AMVCA dresses?

Maryam

March 15, 2017

Gist

adesua etomi, amvca, Fashion, rita dominic, somkele

Best Digital Content

Best Indigenous Language Film (West Africa)

Best Indigenous Language (East Africa)

Best Indigenous Language (South Africa)

Best Multichoice Talent Factory Movie

Best Scripted M-Net Original

Best Unscripted M-Net Original

Best Indigenous M-Net Original

Best Short Film

Best Supporting Actor

Best Supporting Actress

Best Lead Actor

Best Lead Actress

Best Cinematography

Best Editing

Best Sound Design

Best Art Direction

Best Costume Design

Best Makeup

Best Writing TV series

Best Writing Movie

Best Documentary

Best Series (Scripted)

Best Series (Unscripted)

Best Director

Best Movie

You May Have Your List of Most-Likely Winners, But We Made Some Prophecies You Should Watch Out For

Layi Wasabi — Best Digital Content Creator

“Jagun Jagun” — Best Indigenous Language Film (West Africa)

Timini Egbuson — Best Supporting Actor

Joke Silva — Best Supporting Actress

Stan Nze — Best Lead Actor

Ireti Doyle — Best Lead Actress

Ola Cardoso — Best Cinematography

“A Tribe Called Judah” — Best Movie

“Wura” — Best Scripted Series

“The Real Housewives of Lagos” (S2) – Best Unscripted Series

Best Actress in a Drama (Movie/TV Series)

Best Actor in a Drama (Movie/TV Series)

Best Online Social Content Creator

Best Costume Designer

Best Writer

Best Director

Genevieve Nnaji (2013)

Somkele Iyamah (2017)

Denola Grey (2022)

Nana Akua Addo (2020)

Erica Nlewedim (2022)

Toni Tones (2018)

Nancy Isime (2022)

Ebuka Obi-Uchendu (2018)

Adesua Etomi (2022)

Eku Edewor (2013)

Bonang Matheba (2022)

Sola Sobowale (2020)

Tope Tedela (2022)

Osas Ighodaro (2022)

Rita Dominic (2018)

Idia Aisien (2020)

Sika Osei (2022)

KieKie (2022)

Adebayo Oke-Lawal

Ini Dima-Okojie (2020)

Uti Nwachukwu (2022)

13. Toyin Lawani aka Tiannah Styling

12. Ifuennada from Big Brother Naija

11. James Brown

10. Simi Drey

9. Denrele Edun

8. Belinda Effa

7. Pretty Mike

6. Adedimeji and Bimpe Lateef

5. Niyi Lawal

4. Caroline or Carolyna Hutchings

3. Emmanuel from Big Brother Naija

2. Timini Egbuson

1. Ebuka Obi-Uchendu

Erica Nweledim’s “Imperial Majesty” Lewk

Caroline Danjuma’s take on the babydoll dress

Tope Tedela’s immaculate couture moment