AMVCA 2023 Kicks Off With Spectacular Cultural Display 

The AMVCA maintains its prestigious legacy as a trailblazing platform that celebrates and recognizes achievement in the African film and television industries.

By Omotayo Olutekunbi

The 9th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA) began in great style yesterday, May 18, 2023, with a mesmerizing cultural spectacle.

The famous event was held in Lagos’s Balmoral Convention Centre and Federal Palace Hotel, converted into a spectacular festival of culture and beauty. Attendees adorned the event with their spectacular traditional costumes, showcasing a beautiful combination of African history with the splendor of the film Oscars.

The event was embellished with gorgeous traditional clothes worn by distinguished people and celebrities, exhibiting the vast range of African customs. Popular individuals in attendance were Mercy Aigbe, Yemi Cregx of BBTitans, the bewitching Juicy Jay and Thabang, BBNaija stars Liqourose, Elozonam, and Saga, Ramsey Nouah, Uti Nwachukwu, and the acclaimed John Ugbe, CEO of Multichoice Nigeria.

The event began with a soul-stirring recital of the Nigerian national hymn by a choral ensemble, which captivated the crowd and received a thunderous ovation. The scene was then prepared for an incredible display of performances by numerous ethnic groups, enthralling the audience with engaging melodies, throbbing drumbeats, beautiful chants, and mesmerizing dance techniques. The diverse display’s combination of heritage and innovation captivated the audience.

Dr. Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and West Africa Channels at MultiChoice Nigeria said that this year’s AMVCAs aspires to raise the bar for talent recognition and reward in the varied domains of the African cinema and television business.

She said, “Last year, we had an eight-day lineup of activities leading to the Award Night. This year will be no different. We have decided to sustain the momentum by bringing back all the activities. The only difference is that they will all take place within three days.”

Following that, the evening’s presenters, Nancy Isime and Daniel Etim-Effiong, announced a contest to choose the best-dressed male and female celebrities of the night. The roster included BBNaija’s White Money, Erica, Venita, Saga, Elozonam, and the explosive combo of BBTitans, Juicy Jay, and Yemi Cregx. Yemi Cregx and Venita took home the prestigious “Best Dressed Celebs” title at the AMVCA, an honor that surely contributed to the night’s glitz.

Do2dtun, the DJ and self-proclaimed “energy god,” took over after the contest, blasting waves of pulsing music across the auditorium, inspiring the crowd to spring out of their chairs and dance with unfettered feelings.

This year’s AMVCA has a three-day schedule jam-packed with events, including master class training and a fashion and gala night. The award event will include over 30 categories and 300 nominees, cementing its standing as Africa’s most distinguished honor.

Year after year, the AMVCA maintains its prestigious status as a trailblazing platform that celebrates and recognizes excellence in the African cinema and television industries, engaging audiences and generating memorable moments.