awards | 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
The Nigerian National Awards are a series of ceremonial awards given to outstanding individuals for their exemplary service and contributions to the country. These honours are divided into different ranks and categories, showing their hierarchy and significance.

The National Awards were established by the National Honours Act No. 5 of 1964 and have been conferred yearly to deserving individuals since October 1963.

The National Honours Awards Committee, the body in charge of nominations and award presentation, selects nominees according to different criteria, including efforts in nation-building, community development, service to humanity, professional excellence and the upholding of national integrity.

Here is a list of the National Awards in descending order:
1. Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (GCFR)
This is the highest award that can be conferred to civilians. The award is mostly held by presidents and past presidents, with the last individual to attain it being the current President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Notable non-presidential holders of the award are Queen Elizabeth II, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Moshood Kashimawo Abiola (MKO) for their contributions to nation-building.
1. Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON)
This is the second-highest award on this list. Its holders are usually vice presidents, chief justices, senate presidents, and monarchs in Nigeria. However, there have been exceptions to this rule, and they include Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Godwin Emefiele, Chief Bisi Akande, and Amina Jane Muhammed who were awarded for their work internationally and as nation-builders.
1. Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR)
This award is given to present or past speakers in the House of Representatives or top cabinet Members in the Executive Council, police chiefs, significant traditional rulers, and distinguished military generals. It is also esteemed to individuals esteemed to have contributed immensely to politics, philanthropy in the society and community development. Past awardees include Tony Elumelu, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and HRM Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II.
1. Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON)
This national honour is often presented to state governors, exceptional members of the legislature, cabinet members of the executive council and any other individuals who have contributed immensely to society as deemed fit by the President and award board. Past awardees include Sen. Abubakar Kyari, Prof Ishaq Oloyede, Prof Ali Pate, and Dr Herbert Wigwe.
1. Office of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR)
This is one of the highest civilian national award in the country. It is awarded to individuals who have shown great leadership and have recorded achievements in the country. This list of awardees ranges from individuals in the business, education and industry to legislature members. Past awardees include Tony Ezenna, Hon. Adebayo Adelabu and Sam Ohuabunwa.
1. Office of The Order of The Niger (OON)
The Order of the Niger is the second-highest civilian honour in Nigeria, and it’s awarded to individuals who have made immense strides in sectors such as Agriculture, Business, Arts and Culture. Notable past recipients include David Adeleke aka Davido, Kunle Afolayan, and Tiwatope Savage.
1. Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR)
The award is for individuals who have shown significant commitment and support to the country and its ideals. The award is presented to public servants, community leaders, and worthy individuals in the society.

A notable recipient of this award is musician Damini Ogulu aka Burna Boy. Other recipients in the entertainment industry include Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Joke Silva, Kanayo. O. Kanayo, Osita Iheme, Genevieve Nnaji, Patience Ozokwor.
1. Member of The Order of the Niger (MON)
This award is conferred on individuals who have made admirable contributions to the country in their respective fields. The MON has in the past been awarded to professionals in sports, entertainment, journalism, social or legal advocacy, etc.

The most recent recipients of this award are the officials and players in the National team after their impressive performance in the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON), as well as musicians: Innocent Idibia, K1 De Ultimate, and Teniola Apata.

Another award in Nigeria that you should learn about is the Nigerian National Merit award.
Raymond Temituro

April 13, 2024

Citizen

awards, National Honours, Nigeria, Nigerian politics, Nigerians, Politics
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
The 2023 Grammy Awards came, saw, gave Tems her first Grammy, aired Burna Boy and failed to give Beyoncé her flowers… again.

Here’s a recap of all the moments that had us shook and the ones we’d very much like to forget.

Criminal: Beyonce losing “Album of the Year” for the fourth time

The most shocking moment of the night has to be when Beyoncé’s Renaissance lost the Album of the Year trophy to Harry Style’s Harry’s House. After putting out the most impactful and well-thought-out album of 2022 (still no visuals sha), everyone assumed this would be Beyoncé’s year to win the top prize, but the Grammys said:

Like Adele said in 2017, after winning Album of the Year, “What the f–k does she [Beyoncé] have to do to win album of the year?”

Say What?: Harry Styles saying, “This doesn’t happen to people like me very often”, after winning Album of the Year

As if beating out Beyoncé wasn’t bad enough, the As It Was singer went on to say things like this don’t happen to people like him. People like who, Harry? White men? British people? Straight men? Former One Direction members?

Boy, bye.

Best: Tems winning her first Grammy

If the world was ending, best believe I’ll carry Tems and her Grammy and leave the rest of you to deal with all the wahala. Tems showed us once again that she’s THAT girl when she took home the Grammy for Best Melodic Rap Performance alongside Future and Drake for their song, WAIT FOR U. Considering the year Tems has had, I knew she wouldn’t walk away empty-handed. Now, we have to get ready for the Oscars.

Not too bad: Burna Boy losing in both categories

I didn’t see Burna Boy losing in both the Global Music Performance and Global Music Album categories coming. Even if Love, Damini didn’t take home an award, I at least expected Last Last, a massive worldwide hit, to win in its nominated category.

Anyway, maybe this is what you get for insulting and kicking your fans.

Best: Aunty Viola Chinonye Davis winning her first Grammy and getting EGOT status

Viola Davis has had us in a chokehold since How to Get Away With Murder, so it’s time to pop champagne to celebrate her win. Not only did Aunty V win her first Grammy, but the award also makes her the third black woman and one of only 18 people to win an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony award. Talk about iconic.

I know that’s right: Lizzo shouting out Beyoncé during her speech for Record of the Year

Is it really the Grammys if one artiste doesn’t talk about how Beyoncé inspired their career? Adele did it in 2017, Megan Thee Stallion did it in 2021, and now, Lizzo. It’s the consistency for me. Grammys, we hope you’re hearing the crowd? The crowd is a lot. Many people are shouting.

RECOMMENDED: Add These Nigerian Artists to Your Playlist If You Like Beyoncé’s “Renaissance”

Interesting: Samara Joy winning “Best New Artist” over Latto, Muni Long and Tobe Nwigwe

I didn’t know Samara Joy until today — apparently, she’s a jazz artiste. But she’s black, and one thing about me?

I.C.O.N.I.C: Beyoncé making history at the Grammys

Coming into the 2023 Grammys, Beyoncé already had 28 Grammy awards and the record for the most-awarded female musician of all time, but the good sis said, “Hold my cup”.

Winning Best Dance/Electronic Album, Best R&B Song, Best Dance/Electronic Recording and Best Traditional R&B Album, Beyoncé moved her total to 32 Grammys, surpassing classical music conductor Georg Solti’s record of 31 Grammys.

Quick question: Where is she putting all these Grammys, abeg?

Here for it: Mary J Blige, DJ Khaled and Rick Ross stanning Tems… as they should

Iconic Moments as Tems meets Mary J. Blige, DJ Khaled & Rick Ross at the #Grammys pic.twitter.com/pivq3aasak
— tems 𝖘z𝖓 (@temsszn) February 6, 2023

Forget Solape, it’s high time we ask Temilade what she put in her stew.

Very very somehow: Jay Z joining DJ Khaled, Rick Ross, Lil Wayne and John Legend to perform God Did right after Beyoncé’s loss

DJ Khaled’s set for God Did would’ve been a great and timely performance to close the show if Beyoncé had won. But with the direction the show took, the song and performance felt off. God does many things, but I doubt Harry’s House winning over Renaissance was his handwork. I’ll find out on Sunday.

ALSO READ: Do Nigeria’s Biggest Artists Really Need the Grammys?

Conrad Johnson-Omodiagbe

February 6, 2023

Music, Pop

awards, Beyoncé, Burna Boy, grammys, music, Tems
You deserve an award for all the stress you’ve gone through at your job this year. Take this quiz to find out which.

Meyimi O.

December 5, 2022

In Your Feels, Quizzes

awards, end of the year party, work
Have you ever wondered what prizes Nigerian politicians would win at an awards show? Well, welcome to the Zikoko Awards. We’re recognizing some of the OGs who either made us laugh this year, stressed our lives, or outright annoyed us.

Noisemaker of the year: Dino Melaye

You can probably hear his laughter throughout the picture as he shouts “ajeku iya ni o je”. No one comes close to this man in noisemaking.

Best in Godfatherism: Bola Ahmed Tinubu

With sentences that toe the line of befuddlement, nobody comes close to this man in “building” people who support him to the point of suspension of belief. All he needs is a cigar and a bow-tied suit.

Best in Content Creation: Yahaya Bello

At this point, Nigerian artists need to start meeting this man for music promotion. He’ll shamelessly promote their songs in his TikTok. Criticise him for not caring about his state, that’s your personal business.

Best Dancer: Sen. Ademola Adeleke

This man will steal your babe with vibes and fire dance moves that’ll burst your brain. You’ll be so distracted, you’ll forget to pay attention to his politics.

Next Rated Personality: Peter Obi

He might look like the underdog right now but his fanbase is rapidly growing. We’ll come back next year to review his career.

RELATED: What if These Nigerian Politicians Were to Be Your Co-Workers?

Best in follow-follow: Babajide Sanwo-Olu

We’re not even sure if this man is a governor or a personal bodyguard.

Best in pointing: Babajide Sanwo-Olu

This man deserves a second mention for another talent he has —– pointing.

Best in Vacation: President Muhammadu Buhari

Man doesn’t let anything stop him from taking his monthly trip to chill out in Europe. In fact, you Nigerians are stressing him out.

Artist of the Year: Nyesom Wike

This man’s band has done wonders at his live speeches, peppering us with hilarious tunes every single time. No one deserves it more.

NEXT READ: These Areas in Lagos Are at the Risk of Flooding

Sheriff Alimi

October 21, 2022

Citizen

awards, nigerian politicians
After all the pepper Nigeria has shown you, you deserve a national award too. Take this quiz and we’ll give you one.

Sheriff Alimi

October 12, 2022

Quizzes

awards, National Honours, Nigeria
We’re feeling a bit generous with our faves bagging awards left and right. Take this quiz, and we’ll tell you what award you deserve.

Meyimi O.

September 5, 2022

Quizzes

awards, headies awards
Everyone glows up after they japa, even the Headies. The 2022 Headies took place at the COBB Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, USA. While the awards have been dragged several times for their NTA-level production, this year’s look was slightly better, but it doesn’t mean I agree with all the winners announced.

Here are some winners I liked and hot takes nobody asked me for.

Next Rated was a big miss

Will this settle the Bnxn and Ruger beef once and for all? I doubt it.

The Headies aired Ruger, Ayra Starr, Lojay and Zinoleesky to give Bnxn the Next Rated award. I get it, we couldn’t escape Bnxn’s voice thanks to Feelings with Poe, Bling with Blaqbonez and Mood with Wizkid, but when you think about it, Bnxn is the only artist on that list without a massive solo hit — no one should mention Outside here.

They got Album of the Year right

Even though Basketmouth’s Yabasi, Ayra Starr’s 19 & Dangerous, Olamide’s Carpe Diem and The Kutis’ Legacy were solid albums, the clear winner was Wizkid’s Made in Lagos. We even named it our top album from 2021.

Special recognition for an alleged assaulter?

It’s crazy how everyone chooses to act like we weren’t all on this earth when D’banj was accused of sexual assault and using the police to intimidate his victim in 2020. Since then, I’ve watched him judge Nigerian Idol and collaborate with other artists like nothing happened.

If everyone else has forgotten, I’m just here to say I haven’t.

Burna Boy winning African Artist of the Year was on point

I mean, it’s Odogwu. What do you expect? The only thing I’m upset about is the missed opportunity to drag the Headies if they’d given this to someone else. We all know Odogwu can be very petty.

Last last sha, that Last Last song is still a bop.

RECOMMENDED: Do We Love Burna Boy’s “Love, Damini”?

Alternative Song of the Year for Flavour? Say sike

Flavour winning Alternative Song of the Year for Doings is a crazy joke, especially when the nomination list included Made Kuti and Ibejii. I don’t think the Headies understand their own categories.

Sarz is the Producer of the Year, no cap

Sarz has said it before; he’s nobody’s mate. Monalisa has been out for a year, but somehow everyone loses their home training once it comes up.

Giving Street Hop to Ameno Amapiano is an insult to Ko Po Ke (KPK)

While everyone, including fake Mariah Carey wanted to bam bam and chill with the big boys, I don’t think Goya Menor and Nektunez’ Ameno Amapiano remix was a bigger song than Mohbad and Rexxie’s Ko Po Ke (KPK). Have you all forgotten the Bobrisky dance? What’s happening here?

Essence packing awards like wedding souvenir

Wizkid and Tems’ Essence was a big winner at the Headies, and rightfully so. Taking home awards for Collaboration of the Year and Song of the Year, Essence showed up and showed out. Even Kanye West agrees Essence has small crack in it.

#JusticeForAmaarae

Handing over the West African Artist of the Year, aka their “we love Ghana too” award to Gyakie, was a big miss for the Headies. While Gyakie took everywhere by storm with Forever in 2020, she hasn’t maintained the initial hype, unlike Amaarae, who still has everyone in a chokehold with her THE ANGEL YOU DON’T KNOW album from the same year.

Headies, “Inspirational” doesn’t automatically mean “Christian”

Once again, the Headies need to reevaluate their categories because what the hell is an Inspirational Single? The category was won by Kcee and Okwezilli Eze Group for Cultural Praise. Still, looking at other nominees like Mercy Chinwo, Timi Dakolo and Nathaniel Bassey, it’s clear this is a Christian music category.

Patoranking’s Celebrate Me winning Record of the Year doesn’t gel

I love me some Patoranking, but having Celebrate Me win Record of the Year over Wizkid’s Essence or Tiwa Savage’s Somebody’s Son doesn’t really make sense to me.

ALSO READ: These 10 Tiwa Savage Songs Are Also Gospel Songs, Let’s Explain

Conrad Johnson-Omodiagbe

September 5, 2022

Pop

afrobeats, awards, headies, music
Mr Macaroni, Miss Techy, Lasisi Elenu, Kie Kie, Aproko Doctor, Zeelicious Foods, ShankComics, Lush Hair, Rodney, Pamilerin, Enioluwa, James Brown, Mark Angel, Tunde Onakoya, Amazing Klef and Akin Faminu have all emerged as winners at the second edition of Trendupp Awards – Nigeria’s first-ever awards for influencers and content creators, which held on Sunday, June 12, 2022, at The Monarch Event Centre, Lagos, Nigeria.

The event was hosted by the multi-talented influencer, content creator and TV host Bukunmi Adeaga Ilorifondly known as Kie Kie. This year’s edition was aimed at recognizing and applauding the outstanding work of influencers, content creators, brands and organisations in Nigeria for their immense contribution to the social media space and encouraging these audacious individuals and organizations.

All sixteen winners across each category were not only presented with their gold statuettes but also received cash prizes of $1000 each, while the winner of the Emerging Force category (the only voting category), ShankComics received a cash prize of $1,500 all courtesy of the event’s headline sponsor Chipper Cash App, one of the world’s leading financial service providers, as the brand’s support to the craft of these leading influencers and content creators in Nigeria.

The most coveted award of the night, the “Force of Influence” was clinched by Mr Macaroni making him the influencer with the highest influence in the Nigerian social media space.

See the full list of winners here.
- The Force of Collaboration: Brands that strategically identify and leverage impactful partnerships with content creators/Influencers between March 2021 – March 2022.
Winner: Lush Hair Nigeria

Lush Hair Nigeria
- The Force of Comedy Skits: Influencers and content creators who commanded the highest engagement & virality power in the comedy niche between March 2021 – March 2022.
Winner: Lasisi Elenu (Nosa Afolabi)

Lasisi Elenu (Nosa Afolabi)
- The Force of Creative Art (Endowed by MTVBase): Influencers and content creators who commanded the highest engagement & virality power in the art niches such as painting/drawing, writing, video content production and dancing etc between March 2021 – March 2022.
Winner: Amazing Klef (Okwuchukwu Martins Dominic)

Amazing Klef (Okwuchukwu Martins Dominic)
- The Force of Food Content: Influencers and Content Creators who have been able to infuse creativity in their content thus commanding engagement in the food niche between March 2021 – March 2022.
Winner: Zeelicious Foods (Winifred Nwania)

Zeelicious Foods (Winifred Nwania)
- The Force of Lifestyle Content (Endowed by Tramango): Influencers and content creators who commanded the highest engagement & virality power in lifestyle niches such as beauty, travel and fashion between March 2021 – March 2022.
Winner: Akin Faminu

Akin Faminu
- The Force of Online Sensation (Endowed by Dotts Media House): Individuals that have found a way to break through the noise and commanded attention in the social media space between March 2021 – March 2022.
Winner: James Brown (James Chukwueze Obialor)
- The Force of Instagram: Influencers and Content creators with the most engaging content & virality power on Instagram between March 2021 – March 2022.
Winner: Kie Kie (Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori)

Kie Kie (Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori)
- The Force of Social Good: Influencers and content creators who clamoured/spoke up for the social good of the community/country between March 2021 – March 2022.
Winner: Tunde Onakoya

Tunde Onakoya
- The Force of Tech Content: Influencers and content creators who have found a way to use content in communicating technological leaps and information in easily digestible and laudable ways between March 2021 – March 2022.
Winner: Miss Techy (Tobi Ayeni)
- The Force of TikTok: Influencers and Content creators that commanded the highest engagement & virality power on Tiktok between March 2021 – March 2022.
Winner: R0dn3y (Rodney Odinakachi Umeh)

Rodn3y (Rodney Odinakachi Umeh)
- The Force of Twitter: Influencers and Content Creators that dominated the Twitter platform with meaningful/impactful conversations and threads between March 2021 – March 2022.
Winner: Pamilerin Adegoke

Pamilerin Adegoke
- The Force of Virality: Influencer or content creator who mastered the art of making lasting impressions, with content that commands a high number of reposts, likes, shares and talkability between March 2021 – March 2022.
Winner: Enioluwa Adeoluwa
- The Force of YouTube: Influencers and Content creators that commanded the highest engagement & virality power on YouTube between March 2021 – March 2022.
Winner: Mark Angel
- The Force of Wellness: Influencers and content creators using social platforms to improve the well-being and health of the public in engaging ways between March 2021 – March 2022.
Winner: Aproko Doctor (Nonso Bobby Fidelis Egemba)

Aproko Doctor (Nonso Bobby Fidelis Egemba)
- Emerging Force (Endowed by Chipper Cash App): Content creators and influencers who are rated as the next big deal in social media between March 2021 – March 2022.
Winner: ShankComics (Adesokan Emmanuel)

ShankComics (Adesokan Emmanuel)
- The Force of Influence (Endowed by Pepsi): Influencer or content creator who commanded the highest influence in the Nigerian social media space between March 2021 – March 2022.
Winner: Mr Macaroni (Debo Adedayo)

Mr. Macaroni (Debo Adebayo)

Trendupp Awards is an initiative of Trendupp, a platform where creatives receive support, publish exclusive content and build direct relationships with their fans across Africa.

The Trendupp Awards is presented by Dotts Media House and powered by Chipper Cash App – one of the world’s leading financial service providers.Also proudly supported by MTV Base, Tramango, Africa Magic, YNaija, Brand Communicator, Vanguard Allure, BellaNaija.
Partner

June 14, 2022

Announcements

awards, sponsored
One thing about us, we love awards’ season. Oscar, Grammys, Emmys, yes, choke us with all of it. While Nigeria has movie awards, they’re still not giving what they’re supposed to be giving.. So we want to see these categories be added to Nigerian movie awards:

1. Most chaotic wig

In Nollywood, wigs are characters all on their own. Back in the day, we watched our faves show up in stiff-ass wigs that channelled everyone from Mufasa in Lion King to Storm in X-Men. With New Nollywood having a battle of the frontals and throwing 13-inch kinky Brazilian wigs on all their characters — even in movies set in the village — it’s only right that we have a category to recognize one of the most versatile and underrated performers in the industry, our wigs.

2. Best Ameritish Accent

Nollywood and accents you can’t trace or identify go hand-in-hand. Back then, Jim Iyke, Hanks Anuku and Regina Askia stressed us with their fake accents. But these days, almost every Nollywood actor has a VPN-acquired accent. Also, is it really a Nollywood film if the lead character didn’t just return from overseas to find love? We refuse to list out the contenders in this category, but they know themselves.

3. Best wedding/burial (or any celebration-type film that requires at least 20 popular actors)

Why did Nollywood discover ensemble comedies and decide that was “it”? Like, after The Wedding Party, it’s like they sent a WhatsApp broadcast and decided to compete to see how many stars they could fit into one film, no matter how chaotic the script or casting might look. A certain studio is known for packing actors in their films like Titus sardines and honestly, they deserve this award.

4. Best shot of the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge

Shoutout to the hardest working actor in Nollywood mehn. Since we can’t nominate individuals, we’ve decided to go with the film that best captured his beauty in glorious HD.

5. Best Instagram/BBNaija influencer-to-actor transition

Nollywood has become the final bus stop for IG influencers and Big Brother Naija alumni. We’re not complaining o, before you drag us. Instead, we’re creating a category to honour the transitions that sort of worked.

6. Best soundtrack

We‘ve missed the days when Nollywood summarised the entire plot of a film using Stanley Okorie’s voice. It saved you the stress of deciding whether or not you actually wanted to see the film. Now, we have songs like “Nneka, obu gini?” from Nneka the Pretty Serpent as major contenders for this award. Don’t lie, that song is catchy AF!

7. Best plot-that-didn’t-even-make-sense

How did a script like Chief Daddy 2pass through a scriptwriter, producers, a director and a container of actors, and no one thought to say, “Ewww, God forbid!” We watch some films and convince ourselves that the people behind them must’ve had their loved ones kidnapped, with the film being a form of ransom payment. Because honestly, why this? That being said, everyone deserves their flowers — even films that give us headaches.

8. Best ghost

Nollywood ghosts are a case for the FBI. When they’re not crossing the street like Omotola in Blood Sisters, they’re walking around drenched in blood carrying crying babies. It’s all very stressful and they deserve a whole category award for all that hard work.

Conrad Johnson-Omodiagbe

February 11, 2022

Pop

awards, Nigerian Movies, Nollywood, Oscars
Our home girl / bleaching cream queen, Dencia, has come again to slay us with her anyhow fashion style. Before we get to that, let us remind you of a couple of the bizarre fashion choices she has made in the past.

Who remembers this strange gele and onesie combo that she wore to the 2015 BET Awards?

Or this pink pajamas abomination she wore to the Grammys a couple of years ago.

Or that time her outfit was made up mostly of Lion hair.

Home girl is also known to sometimes steal outfit ideas.

That wasn’t fair for us to say. You can’t exactly claim ownership of an outfit. We’re not apologizing tho.
What we’re here to discuss today is what she wore to the Billboard Music Awards that happened over the weekend. Check out this..ehhh…interesting outfit.

We are just as confused as you are about this.
What we would like to know is how she keeps getting into in these events.

I mean, she claims she’s a singer but have you ever heard ANY song from her?

That wasn’t even a joke. If you’ve heard one, let us know.
Anyways, this dress (?) confused many people and a lot of them had tons of stuff to say about it. Tons of MEAN and HILARIOUS stuff..

Let’s start with this person, who legit doesn’t even know who Dencia is

Then there was this person, who thought Dencia looked liked a Transformer.

LMAO!
Also this person who kinda made a valid point.

The dress reminded this person of maths homework.

Another person who got reminded of Transformers after seeing this dress

The dress gave this person Chemistry flashbacks.

Another person that the dress reminded of Maths.

This person we actually agree with.

The name of the villain is Rita Repulsa. Google her and you’ll see that this person was right. Lol
Then this person that refuses to believe that Dencia has/had a music career.

Ha! Skin Lightening chick.
Needless to say, she was among this year’s worst dressed.

Dencia,why do you always do this? We know you have the potential to slay but everytime you get the chance to, you mess up and end up dressing like one of the puppets from Sesame street. We just have one thing to tell you.

PLEASE! Stop embarrassing Africa!
If you enjoyed this sweet gist. read this next gist about this House of representatives member and why she’s the coolest mother-in-law ever.

Let us tell you why this House of Reps Member is the Coolest Mother-in-Law Ever

Astor George

May 22, 2017

Gist

awards, billboard, Cameroonaian, Dencia, dress, Funny, music, Nigerian, outfit
Junior Chamber International Ten Outstanding Young Persons (JCI TOYP) programme is a formal way of recognising young people that excel in their chosen fields.

The awards have existed since 1983, and have honoured 200 people from more than 50 countries.

There are also JCI national awards and some of the Nigerian recipients have included Japheth Omojuwa, Gbenga Sesan, Kanu Nwankwo and Linda Ikeji.

On the international platform, Nigerian recipients have included Ray Ekpu (1988), Dr. Modupe Osho (1996) and Dr. Ola Orekunrin (2013).

Global Honourees are nominated by the national awards committee also get to be honoured in person at the yearly JCI World Congress. This year’s edition is slated for Amsterdam in Netherlands on November 8, 2017 with an all expense paid trip for nominees.

There are 10 categories, including medical innovation, cultural achievement and business/economics/ entrepreneurial achievement.

So if you know someone that is currently doing incredible things in their chosen field, what are you waiting for! Nominate them HERE…

Jola Ayeye

February 21, 2017

Gist

awards, JCI, young people, youth
While you were doing amebo on social media, Wizkid has been too busy with winning at life.

After winning and delivering a brilliant performance at the MAMAs, Wizkid has topped his game with another 3 awards to his name.

On November 6, Wizkid won the Artiste of the year award at the distinguished AFRIMMA and two at the MTV EMAs – Best African Act and Worldwide act.

Wizkid is basically that boy in class that doesn’t read in class but comes first every term.

Congratulations to Wizkid o! Maybe if some people faced their work and stopped doing oversabi on social media, they’ll kuku win one or two awards.

Maryam

November 7, 2016

Gist

afrimma, awards, Wizkid