Veteran Nollywood actress Joke Silva has been named the head judge for the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), scheduled for 2026.
The announcement was made during a press conference held in Lagos on Thursday, where organisers unveiled plans for the upcoming edition of the prestigious awards.
Speaking on her appointment, Silva described the 12th AMVCA as a pivotal milestone in the award’s journey, noting that it continues to evolve into a major cultural platform celebrating African storytelling. She said she accepted the role with a strong sense of duty, emphasising the importance of maintaining the credibility and legacy the awards have built over the years.
According to her, the AMVCA has grown beyond a traditional awards ceremony into a significant institution that recognises excellence in African film and television, while spotlighting the creative forces shaping the industry across the continent.
Silva also highlighted new developments for the 2026 edition, including the expansion of categories to better reflect Africa’s diversity. She noted that the introduction of categories representing North and Central Africa marks a defining step in ensuring broader continental inclusion and recognition.
She assured stakeholders that the judging process would uphold the highest standards of fairness, professionalism and integrity. Silva stressed that the jury’s responsibility goes beyond rewarding popularity, focusing instead on honouring technical excellence, creativity and the depth of storytelling that continues to position African cinema on the global stage.
The awards ceremony is set to take place in Lagos in May 2026, while nominations for the 12th edition are expected to be announced on March 29.
This year’s AMVCA will feature a total of 32 categories, including the introduction of two new Indigenous Language categories aimed at recognising productions from North and Central Africa.
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