Category Archives: EVENTS

DJ Cuppy Celebrates 32nd Birthday Features Beloved Pomeranians

The DJ and philanthropist mark her special day with Dudupoms in a stylish black-and-white-themed shoot

Nigerian DJ and philanthropist Cuppy celebrated her 32nd birthday with an adorable photoshoot featuring her beloved Pomeranians, Dúdú and FünFün—known collectively as the “Dudupoms.” Known for her love and devotion to her pets, Cuppy made this year’s celebration all about family, focusing on her furry companions who are frequently in the spotlight on her social media.

A Stylish Yet Heartwarming Celebration

For the photoshoot, Cuppy chose a classic, monochrome look, donning a chic black-and-white dress accessorized with a pearl necklace that added an elegant touch to the celebratory photos. Keeping her style coordinated with her Dudupoms, Cuppy’s outfit perfectly complemented the matching black-and-white star-patterned ensembles worn by Dúdú and FünFün, creating a cohesive and charming visual.

Capturing the Special Bond

Cuppy’s bond with her Dudupoms is no secret, and the birthday photoshoot captured the love and joy she shares with her furry family members. The Dudupoms looked picture-perfect in their matching outfits, proving they’re every bit as stylish as their owner. Cuppy’s choice to keep the theme simple yet stylish allowed her pups’ personalities to shine, creating an endearing and memorable set of photos.

Fans and Followers Share in the Celebration

Cuppy’s fans quickly took to social media to wish her a happy birthday and gush over the sweet photos of her and the Dudupoms. Known for her openness and love of sharing special moments with her followers, Cuppy delighted fans with this glimpse into her birthday celebration, filled with elegance, simplicity, and the joy of being surrounded by her beloved Dudupoms.

A Birthday Tradition of Family and Fun

As Cuppy marks another year, this photoshoot stands as a testament to her love for her pets and her joyful spirit. With a successful career in music and philanthropy, Cuppy has made it clear that her Dudupoms are an essential part of her life and celebrations. The birthday shoot served not only as a celebration of her special day but also as a touching tribute to the family she holds dear—both human and furry.

Mr. Macaroni Opens Up About Police Brutality During #OccupyLekkiTollGate Protest

In a candid episode of #WithChude, renowned actor and content creator Debo Adebowale, popularly known as Mr. Macaroni, shared his traumatic experience with the Lagos police during the #OccupyLekkiTollGate protest in 2021.

The protest, which aimed to demand accountability and reform in the wake of police brutality in Nigeria, became a defining moment in the country’s ongoing struggle for social justice.

Arrested and Mistreated

Mr. Macaroni revealed that he was arrested under the guise of violating COVID-19 protocols while participating in the protest. He recounted the harrowing treatment he endured at the hands of police officers, describing a scene of humiliation and violence. “I was stripped naked and molested by police officers who seemed to revel in my suffering,” he said, expressing the deep emotional impact of this brutal encounter.

Transformation from Fear to Fearlessness

Despite the trauma he faced, the experience catalyzed a profound change in Mr. Macaroni’s perspective. He reflected on how the ordeal stripped away his fear of authority. “After that experience, all the fear in me disappeared. I wondered how that happened. Before that moment, I used to be afraid,” he explained. The actor had previously harbored concerns about police violence, feeling vulnerable to the potential dangers posed by law enforcement.

However, witnessing the anger and hatred in the officers’ eyes during his treatment transformed his outlook. “They did all they could, and I am sure if I hadn’t been released, they could have done more. At that moment, I said, ‘So this is it? Now we are back,’” he recalled, indicating a sense of resilience that arose from his suffering.

A Commitment to Advocacy

Mr. Macaroni’s experience ignited a newfound determination within him to advocate for those who feel powerless in society. He has since dedicated himself to using his platform to raise awareness about police brutality and advocate for justice and reform. His testimony serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles many Nigerians face in their fight against systemic oppression.

The full interview can be watched below,

Beauty In The Motherland Showcases Africa’s Thriving Beauty Industry

Beauty In The Motherland, Africa’s premier beauty exhibition, awards, and conference, brought together over 150 beauty brands and more than 7,000 attendees in a celebration of African beauty and entrepreneurship. Held in Nigeria, the event has become one of the continent’s largest platforms for promoting local beauty brands and strengthening the African beauty industry’s global footprint.

A Platform for Local and International Beauty Brands

Featuring predominantly African-owned brands alongside select international companies with interests in African markets, Beauty In The Motherland offered an expansive showcase of beauty products, innovations, and trends. Brands from across the continent presented their unique offerings, with local artisans, cosmetics entrepreneurs, and wellness specialists sharing space with international stakeholders eager to explore Africa’s rapidly growing beauty sector.

The event’s impact extended beyond the venue, with a social media campaign that reached an estimated 1.3 million users. The online engagement was powered by creative videos, photos, and commentary from influencers, celebrities, and beauty enthusiasts, spreading the event’s mission of empowerment and representation across digital platforms.

A Gathering of Industry Leaders and Celebrities

Beauty In The Motherland featured networking opportunities with leading industry figures, including Onyeka Michael Ugwu, Linda Edozien, Banke Meshida-Lawal, and Leslie Okoye, along with celebrities such as Toke Makinwa, Bisola Aiyeola, and Uti Nwachukwu. Their presence underscored the event’s role as a critical hub for collaboration, where insights, innovations, and inspiration flowed freely among Africa’s beauty trailblazers and rising stars.

Empowering African Beauty and Redefining Standards

The event highlighted the mission of Beauty In The Motherland: empowering African beauty brands and redefining traditional beauty standards. Speaking at the event, Beatrice Eneh, founder of Nectar Beauty Hub and one of the sponsors, emphasized the importance of African-made beauty products in celebrating the full diversity of African beauty. “Our goal is to showcase African beauty in its full spectrum, breaking free from traditional confines and stereotypes,” she said.

Linda Edozien, CEO of Barazahi Spa and Wellness, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Beauty in the Motherland is aimed at innovating the local beauty industry and promoting the growth of our culture and heritage.” The event’s sponsors, including Fidelity Bank and Lagos State Tourism, reinforced the goal of uplifting the industry, encouraging investment and support for African beauty brands.

Building a Community for African Beauty and Wellness

Beyond being an annual event, Beauty In The Motherland seeks to establish a lasting community where beauty professionals, wellness specialists, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts can connect and support one another. The event’s founders hope to inspire increased funding and support for African beauty brands and entrepreneurs, working to shift perceptions and create sustainable growth for the industry.

As Beauty In The Motherland continues to expand, its message remains clear: to uplift, empower, and connect through the power of beauty in Africa, bringing African beauty to the world and fostering a space for creativity, innovation, and cultural pride.

Ambassador Amaka Okeke scores high at NICA Awards

In an evening celebrating excellence and leadership, Ambassador Amaka Okeke received the prestigious Most Supportive Executive Director of the Year award from the National Institute of Credit Administration (NICA).

This recognition highlights her impactful leadership in the investment and advisory sector, honoring her contributions to business growth, expansion, and stability.

A Catalyst for Growth at Optiva Capital Partners

Ambassador Okeke has dedicated over 11 years to Optiva Capital Partners, where her visionary leadership has driven significant achievements in investment services. Her commitment to innovation, particularly in investment immigration and wealth retention, has transformed Optiva Capital Partners into a leading firm in Africa, empowering clients to secure financial stability and growth.

Ambassador Amaka Okeke

Under her guidance, Optiva has expanded its influence across the continent, now recognized as Africa’s largest provider of investment immigration services. With a team of 1,300 professionals, 19 branches, and a network of elite global partnerships, Optiva offers a tailored service model that addresses the unique needs of individuals and families in wealth management.

A Distinguished Gathering of Industry Leaders at NICA’s “Credit Grows Green Economy” Event

This year’s NICA event, held at the Banker’s House on Adeola Hopewell Street in Victoria Island, Lagos, brought together key figures from Nigeria’s credit industry under the theme Credit Grows Green Economy. The gathering included regulators, policymakers, international partners, and professionals from the credit administration sector.

The event featured a panel discussion, an honorary fellowship award ceremony, and the presentation of the Nigeria Credit Industry Award. The following day offered additional presentations from industry experts and panel discussions, further emphasizing the role of credit in economic sustainability.

A Voice for Wealth Retention and Diaspora Engagement

In addition to her role at Optiva Capital Partners, Ambassador Okeke recently represented the firm at Nigeria’s Diaspora Day celebration held at the presidential villa. There, she engaged with Nigerians living abroad, discussing wealth creation and retention strategies tailored for the diaspora community.

Her participation underscored Optiva’s commitment to fostering economic resilience and promoting financial security for Nigerians worldwide.

Recognition of a Transformational Leader

The Most Supportive Executive Director award underscores Ambassador Okeke’s transformative influence on the industry and her dedication to empowering businesses and individuals alike. Through her leadership, Optiva Capital Partners has cemented its position as a powerhouse in the African financial landscape, driving progress and sustainability within the industry.

African Designers Dominate London Fashion Week’s 40th Anniversary

A Historic Moment for African Fashion on the Global Stage

London Fashion Week’s 40th-anniversary celebration became a defining moment as African designers stole the spotlight, captivating global audiences with breathtaking collections. This groundbreaking showcase was driven by a visionary partnership between Vanity Hub Africa and London Fashion Week, led by British-Nigerian entrepreneur Lady Ayobami Animashaun.

Shaping Global Perceptions of African Luxury

Lady Ayobami’s leadership fostered a cultural exchange that introduced African innovation to the global stage, transforming perceptions of African fashion as not just cultural but luxurious and forward-thinking. “What we’ve seen today is just the beginning,” said Lady Ayobami. “African fashion is here to stay, shaping the future of global trends.”

The Stars of the Runway

  • Gert-Johan Coetzee (South Africa): Known for his couture brilliance, Coetzee wowed audiences with vibrant designs, luxurious fabrics, and sustainable techniques, redefining high fashion.
  • Ugo Monye (Nigeria): Famed for his modern Agbada, Monye elevated traditional Nigerian attire into high fashion, blending heritage with contemporary aesthetics.
  • Adebayo Jones (UK/Nigeria): His “Emperor Monarch Collection” fused British tailoring with Yoruba traditions, earning acclaim for its elegance and innovation.
  • Ifeoma Umenyiora (Nigeria): Through her label Piillz N Poizn, Umenyiora delivered bold, unapologetic styles, positioning African fashion as wearable art.
  • Yoli Koomson (Ghana): Inspired by Ghana’s Ashanti heritage, Koomson’s collection reimagined kente fabrics into sleek, modern silhouettes.
  • LA Kimmy (Nigeria): Pushing boundaries with futuristic textures and inclusive designs, Kinime Igbokwe’s La Kimmy embodied cutting-edge couture.

A New Chapter for Global Fashion

The event proved that African fashion is not a fleeting trend but a movement redefining the industry’s future. These designers showcased the continent’s creative depth through sustainable luxury, cultural narratives, and innovative design.

As the curtain closed, the message was clear: Africa had not just arrived but reshaped the global fashion landscape.

Regina Daniels Celebrates Birthday Amid Heartfelt Tribute from Husband

The actress turns 24, honored by family, friends, and fans

Nigerian actress Regina Daniels celebrated her 24th birthday on Thursday, receiving a heartfelt tribute from her billionaire husband, businessman, and politician, Ned Nwoko. The couple’s public display of affection added a sentimental touch to the celebrations, warming the hearts of fans and well-wishers alike.

In a post shared on his Instagram page, Nwoko expressed his admiration and love for his wife, calling her “an amazing wife and mother, whom I love so much.” Accompanying the emotional message were photos and a video from Daniels’ birthday photoshoot, where the actress dazzled in a striking red outfit.

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The politician revealed that celebrating his wife’s birthday is an occasion he looks forward to each year, expressing his desire to honor her every day. Nwoko further praised Daniels for her exceptional role as a wife and mother, conveying his deep affection on behalf of their family, including their two young sons.

Regina Daniels Reflects on Personal Growth

Marking her special day, Regina Daniels shared a reflective message on Instagram, embracing her journey and growth. “Today, I celebrate my journey, my growth, and the unique person I’ve become. Here’s to embracing every moment, chasing dreams, and cherishing the love around me. May this year be filled with joy, adventure, and all the sweet moments I deserve,” she wrote, inspiring her fans with words of gratitude and optimism.

Birthday Wishes from Celebrities and Colleagues

The young actress, known for her versatile roles in Nollywood, was showered with love from fellow celebrities and industry colleagues. Stars such as Mercy Johnson-Okojie, Ini Edo, Shan George, and Mercy Aigbe sent their best wishes through social media, celebrating Daniels and her achievements.

Fans also joined in the celebration, flooding the comments section with warm messages and admiration for the actress, who has grown into one of the most popular figures in the Nigerian entertainment industry.

Daniels’ birthday festivities reflected a blend of love, personal reflection, and public admiration, with her family and fans rallying to make her day even more memorable.

Star-Studded Premiere of “The Uprising: Wives On Strike” Celebrates Nigerian Cinema

Cast Members Dazzle in Elegant Gowns at the Glamorous Event

The highly anticipated premiere of “The Uprising: Wives On Strike,” produced by renowned filmmaker Omoni Oboli, took center stage last night in grand fashion. The event radiated elegance and excitement as the cast made their entrance, dressed in stunning, flowing gowns that captured the spirit of the night.

Omoni Oboli, the creative force behind the film, stole the spotlight in breathtaking ensembles by Trish O. Couture and Becca Needles and Stitches. With her timeless poise and charm, she mesmerized the audience, showcasing not just her style but also the culmination of months of hard work poured into the film.

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The red carpet also glittered with Nollywood royalty, including Rita Dominic-Anosike, Iyabo Ojo, May Yul-Edochie, and BBNaija9’s Haun Okojie, who joined Oboli to celebrate the movie’s release. The premiere wasn’t just a fashion spectacle—it was a night to honor Nigerian cinema, with friends and industry colleagues gathering to offer their support for the sequel.

A New Chapter in the “Wives On Strike” Saga

“The Uprising: Wives On Strike” serves as a follow-up to “Wives on Strike: The Revolution,” which tackled pressing societal issues by telling the story of market women standing up against domestic violence after the tragic loss of one of their members. This latest installment builds on the legacy of the original 2016 film, “Wives On Strike.”

The star-studded sequel boasts an impressive cast, including Omoni Oboli, Uche Jombo, Ufuoma McDermott, Chioma Akpotha, and veteran actress Hilda Dokubo. New faces in the franchise, such as Tomiwa Tegbe, Segun Arinze, Kalu Ikeagwu, Julius Agwu, Emeka Okoye, Bukunmi “Kie Kie” Adeaga, and Okey Bakassi, bring fresh energy to the project.

Coming to Cinemas Soon

The excitement surrounding “The Uprising: Wives On Strike” promises to carry over into cinemas when the film officially releases on October 18th. With its compelling narrative, all-star cast, and commitment to addressing social issues through storytelling, the sequel is poised to be a must-watch in Nigerian cinema.

Audiences are eagerly anticipating how the story will unfold, continuing the powerful legacy of the “Wives On Strike” series—a testament to the strength of community, resilience, and the ongoing fight for justice.

Check out their stunning outfits:

Shana Maksoudova Rings in 29 with a Spectacular Birthday Bash

Seasoned media personality, model, and public figure Shana Maksoudova, CEO of Rive Gauche Paris Rive Droite magazine, marks her 29th birthday in a grand celebration with a blend of style and heartfelt reflection.that showcases her remarkable career and influence in the media industry. 

Expressing her gratitude, Shana set the tone for a celebratory journey filled with joy and introspection.

She has gotten congratulations from friends, family, and industry colleagues.

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Legacy of Excellence 

As CEO of Rive Gauche Paris Rive Droite magazine, Maksoudova has played a central role in shaping contemporary media narratives. Her work is celebrated around the world, reflecting her extensive network and the impact of her innovative approach and commitment to showcasing diverse voices in the industry. 

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Looking to the future 

As she celebrates this milestone, Shana Maksoudova continues to inspire the next generation of media professionals. Her vision for the future of Rive Gauche Paris Rive Droite Magazine promises to maintain its status as a leading voice in the world of fashion, culture and lifestyle as well as the entertainment industry as a whole. 

New Digital Magazine in Nigeria

In an innovative effort to uplift African voices and honour the rich cultural diversity of the continent, focusing on lifestyle, fashion, music, sports, and entertainment, Shana Maksoudova looks to officially launch a new digital magazine, @Trendznigeria.com, in Nigeria. The magazine seeks to connect with a broad Pan-African audience and foster partnerships across various sectors in Nigeria and beyond. With its launch on the horizon, it promises to become a vibrant platform for showcasing Africa’s rich cultural tapestry to the world.

Maksoudova’s vision extends beyond Nigeria, with plans to expand the magazine’s reach across the continent by spotlighting various cultural expressions, the magazine aims to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of Africa’s unique contributions to global culture.

With its engaging content and commitment to diversity, this digital platform promises to connect audiences with the vibrant narratives that define the African experience. As the magazine grows, it hopes to become a key player in the international media landscape, bridging gaps and building connections across borders.

Rémy Martin Celebrates 300 Years of Exceptional Cognac: Highlights From the Lagos Coupe Gala

Marking Three Centuries of Craftsmanship and Innovation

Rémy Martin, the renowned French cognac house, is celebrating an extraordinary milestone – 300 years of excellence in cognac production. The tricentennial celebrations are being held worldwide under the theme “We Dream Forward”, paying homage to the brand’s heritage while looking ahead to a sustainable and innovative future. These global festivities recently made a stop in Lagos, Nigeria, where key highlights included the exclusive launch of the limited-edition Rémy Martin 300th Anniversary Coupe at a glamorous gala.

The 300-Year Coupe Launch Gala

The centerpiece of Rémy Martin’s 300-year anniversary celebrations was the unveiling of the Rémy Martin 300th Anniversary Coupe, a collector’s item representing three centuries of expertise in cognac-making. The launch gala took place on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, in Lagos, with an intimate, invite-only guest list of cognac connoisseurs, collectors, and celebrities from Nigeria’s art, music, and business scenes.

The limited-edition Coupe, created by Rémy Martin’s Cellar Master Baptiste Loiseau, is a tribute to the brand’s history. It features eaux-de-vie from the Rémy Martin Réserve Perpétuelle, a collection of rare cognac exclusively sourced from the Grande Champagne terroir in the Cognac region of France. Grande Champagne is celebrated for producing eaux-de-vie with exceptional aromatic quality and aging potential, making the 300th Anniversary Coupe a reflection of Rémy Martin’s heritage of excellence.

An Exclusive Evening of Opulence and Craftsmanship

The Coupe Gala offered a luxurious experience for the invited guests, blending fine dining, education on Rémy Martin’s rich history, and, of course, exceptional cognac tastings. Guests were treated to a culinary journey orchestrated by some of Nigeria’s top chefs, who paired exquisite dishes with the finest Rémy Martin blends.

The highlight of the evening was an exclusive tasting of the 300th Anniversary Coupe. Guests were invited to fully immerse themselves in the experience by closing their eyes and savoring the layers of flavor revealed in each sip. The unique tasting process embodied the craftsmanship, tradition, and time encapsulated in every bottle of Rémy Martin’s cognac.

The evening also featured live music that celebrated both the art of craftsmanship and the vibrant Nigerian culture, contributing to a night filled with festivity and unforgettable moments.

The Centaur Tour: Bringing Festivities to the World

As part of its tricentennial celebrations, Rémy Martin has launched the Centaur Tour, an international event bringing the anniversary festivities to the world’s top nightclubs. The Lagos leg of the tour was a highlight of the September 2024 celebrations, showcasing Rémy Martin’s influence on luxury, culture, and lifestyle in Nigeria and beyond.

Introducing Rémy Martin XO Night: A New Era of Luxury

In a move that blends tradition with modernity, Rémy Martin also announced the launch of Rémy Martin XO Night, a high-energy cognac designed to elevate nighttime experiences. Aimed at a younger, affluent audience, XO Night is a premium extension of the iconic Rémy Martin XO and is crafted for exclusive nightlife venues around the world.

Set to launch in October, XO Night will debut at a high-octane club experience, introducing a new dimension of luxury that combines Rémy Martin’s deep-rooted heritage with a modern twist for the next generation of cognac enthusiasts.

A Celebration of the Past, Present, and Future

Rémy Martin’s 300th anniversary is not only a tribute to its exceptional past but also an invitation to dream forward into a future shaped by craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainable luxury. With global celebrations spanning continents, including the Lagos gala and the Centaur Tour, Rémy Martin continues to solidify its legacy as one of the world’s most iconic cognac houses.

Africa Film Academy Unveils 2024 Africa Movie Academy Awards Nominees

The Africa Film Academy has announced the nominees for the 2024 Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), marking the 20th edition of the prestigious event. The announcement was made during a press briefing at the Sheraton Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, where organizers revealed the nominations across various categories. This year’s event will celebrate African filmmaking under the theme, “Celebrating African Creativity,” and will take place on November 2, 2024, in Lagos, in collaboration with the Lagos State government.

Top Nominees

Nigerian films are leading the nominations, with Uche Okocha’s The Weekend receiving an impressive 16 nods. Femi Adebayo’s Jagun Jagun follows closely with seven nominations, further emphasizing the dominance of Nigerian cinema in the African film industry.

AMAA’s Social Media Announcement

In anticipation of the event, the Africa Movie Academy Awards posted an exciting announcement on its X (formerly Twitter) handle, expressing enthusiasm for unveiling the nominees. The post read:

“The Day Has Arrived! Today, we unveil the nominees for the 20th Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA)! Join us in celebrating the incredible talent and creativity that define African cinema. Stay tuned for the big reveal! #AMAATurns20 #AMAA2024Nominations.”

Notable Nominees Across Categories

The 2024 edition sees films from across the continent, spanning short films, feature films, documentaries, and more. Below are some of the key nominations:

  • Efere Ozako Award for Best Short Film
  • The Last Shoe Maker – Uganda
  • Seben – Mali
  • Dear Future Wife – South Africa
  • Isolated – Nigeria
  • Jolie – Angola
  • Strike A Blow And Die – Malawi
  • Don’t Call Me Beautiful – Ghana
  • Sins Of A Father – Zimbabwe/USA
  • Jubril Malaifia Award for Best Animation
  • Heavy Crown – Libya
  • Counter Punch – Kenya
  • Journey of the Legend – Cameroon
  • Hadu – Nigeria
  • Between Paya and Koulou – Senegal
  • Oya (The goddess of gods) – Nigeria
  • Set Pieces – Sudan

Best Documentary

  • A Quand L’Afrique – Congo Brazzaville
  • The Night Still Smells of Gun Powder – Mozambique
  • The Return Train – Mali
  • Gateway To Dreams – Cameroon
  • Rainbow Nation – South Africa
  • Dela: The Making of EL-Anatsui – Nigeria
  • Donga – Libya
  • Rising Up At Night – DRC

Ousmane Sembene Award for Best Film in an African Language

  • Makula – Uganda
  • Jagun Jagun – Nigeria
  • The Queenstown Kings – South Africa
  • Kaka – Nigeria
  • Eskhalemi Sikantombella – South Africa
  • Unheard – Uganda
  • Out of Breath – Nigeria

Michael Anyiam Osigwe Award for Best Film by an African-Born Director Living Abroad

  • Out Of Breath – Nigeria/UK
  • Orah – Nigeria/Canada
  • Isolated – Nigeria/UK
  • Under The Hanging Tree – Namibia/UK
  • Kipkemboi – Nigeria/Canada

Special Categories

Best Diaspora Short Film

  • The Neighbourhood Alert – USA
  • Bottled Up – Jamaica
  • The Golden Boy – USA

Best Diaspora Documentary

  • The Wu Tang Clan: Live at Red Rocks Amphitheatre – USA
  • A Rising Tide – USA
  • Colour – USA

Best Achievement in Costume Design

  • The Beads
  • The Weekend
  • White and Black
  • Jagun Jagun
  • The Queenstown Kings
  • Mai Martaba
  • Out of Breath

Recognizing Excellence in African Cinema

The AMAA continues to be a pivotal event in recognizing and celebrating African talent in the film industry. Founded by the late Peace Anyiam-Osigwe in 2005, the awards aim to promote excellence in African filmmaking and have evolved from a televised event into a year-long platform for filmmakers.

The inaugural ceremony was held in Yenagoa, Nigeria, and remained there for subsequent editions until the first international event in 2015. Over the years, the AMAA has become the premier accolade in African cinema, honoring professionals from various fields in filmmaking and bringing African stories to a global stage.

Best Film and Best Director Categories

This year’s Best Film category features some of the most talked-about movies in African cinema, including Under The Hanging Tree, The Weekend, This is Lagos, A Smile, A Wink and A Tear, Orah, Letters to Goddo, and The Queenstown Kings. The Best Director category will see stiff competition, with notable names such as Daniel Emeke Oriahi (The Weekend), Kenneth Gyang (This Is Lagos), Jahmil X.T Qubeka (The Queenstown Kings), Perivi Katjavivi (Under The Hanging Tree), and Lonzo Nzekwe (Orah) all vying for the top honor.