… as Showmax titles battle for honours tonight

By BENJAMIN NJOKU

The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, AMVCA, is set to take place tonight at the Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos. The event promises to be a spectacular celebration of African cinema, with movie stars across Africa gathering to honour outstanding achievements in film and television.

Red carpet event

The red carpet event is expected to be a highlight of the evening, with celebrities showcasing their stylish outfits and creating unforgettable moments. Like the previous editions, this year’s AMVCAs red carpet event will not be anything short of spectacular. From bold statements to timeless elegance, our celebrities will definitely turn heads tonight with their jaw-dropping ensembles.

Past winners of best-dressed awards , such as BBNaija star, Beauty Tukura and actress Osas Ighodaro, are expected to bring their A-game to the red carpet, with Ighodaro likely to up her fashion ante after her striking appearance last year. Other celebrities who stood out on the red carpet last year, and are expected to do it again are the likes of Simi Drey, Saga Adeolu, Chioma Goodhair, Ghanaian actress Nana Akua Addo and Uche Montana, who stole hearts with her stunning crimson and gold number from veekee James.

Showmax Originals in the running

Showmax Originals are well-represented in this year’s nominations, with three standout Nigerian Originals securing eight nominations across six categories. The titles include “Princess on a Hill,” “Cheta M,” and “Style Magnate,” each showcasing unique storytelling and high-quality production.

One of Showmax’s most recognised entries this year, “Princess on a Hill” bagged nominations in major categories, including Best Scripted Series, Best Writing in a TV Series, and multiple acting nods. Bimbo Manuel secured nominations for Best Lead Actor, while Efa Iwara is in the running for Best Supporting Actor. The series follows Zara Osara, a reality show winner who suddenly finds herself at the helm of a powerful corporation, navigating influence, ambition, and hidden agendas.

With its sharp writing and high-stakes narrative, Princess on a Hill has positioned itself as a strong AMVCA contender. Another nominated Showmax Nigerian Original, Cheta M, has been praised for its nuanced storytelling and emotional depth.

Nominated for both Best Scripted Series and Best Writing for Ifeanyi Barbara Chidi, the series weaves together themes of identity and generational legacy in a way that feels both intimate and universally relatable, and its writing strength may well give it an edge with the judges.

On the unscripted front, Style Magnate is representing the lifestyle genre with a nomination for Best Unscripted Series. With its vibrant take on fashion, culture, and personality, the show brings a different energy to this year’s lineup, one that reflects Showmax’s growing focus on varied, genre-diverse programming. These nominations come at a time when streaming platforms are earning increased recognition in award spaces traditionally dominated by linear TV.

While Showmax isn’t the only digital-first platform on this year’s nominee list, its presence in major categories speaks to a larger trend, one where audiences and judges alike are embracing streaming originals as serious creative contenders.

Talent on display

The Best Actor and Best Actress categories are highly competitive, with talented actors and actresses vying for the top honours. The nominees include Gideon Okeke, Bimbo Manuel, and Stan Nze for Best Actor,while veteran actress Hilda Dokubo, Chioma Chukwuka will be battling with Uche Montana, Gbubemi Ejeye, Uzoamaka Onuoha and Bimbo Ademoye for Best Actress. These actors have proved their mettle overtime, and whoever emerges the winner deserves the honour.

A celebration of African storytelling

The AMVCA 2025 promises to be an unforgettable night of glamour and fashion, celebrating the best of African cinema and storytelling. With its diverse range of nominees and talented industry professionals in attendance, the event is set to be a highlight of the year’s entertainment calendar.