By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Organisers of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards have announced that nominees for the 2026 edition will be unveiled on Sunday, March 29.
The announcement was disclosed on Monday via the awards’ official social media platforms, with Nollywood actor Chimezie Imo, unveiled as host for the nominee reveal programme.
“The spotlight is on… and it’s time to get to know your nominees. Watch the #AMVCA12 Nominee Announcement LIVE |March 29 | 7PM WAT on #AfricaMagic channels,” the organisers said.
Punch Online had earlier reported that a detailed statement published on the Africa Magic website on January 10, 2026, outlined the objectives and submission guidelines for the 12th edition of the awards.
According to the statement, the awards, organised by MultiChoice in partnership with Canal+, will continue to spotlight excellence in African film and television.
“The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) is back for its 12th edition. With entries now open, the awards continue to spotlight excellence in African film and television while expanding its Indigenous Language categories to include North and Central Africa,” the statement read.
Entries for the awards opened on January 11 and closed on February 15, 2026, with submissions accepted from films and television content publicly screened or broadcast between January 1 and December 31, 2025.
It was noted that feature-length films must have been shown in cinemas, on linear television, or on streaming platforms to qualify.
The 12th edition will feature 32 award categories, including 18 jury-decided categories, 11 audience-voted awards, and special recognition awards such as Lifetime Achievement and Trailblazer.
The organisers also introduced new categories for Best Indigenous Language – North Africa and Best Indigenous Language – Central Africa.
“These additions reflect the AMVCA’s commitment to Pan-Africanism, cultural preservation, and equitable representation, ensuring that Africa’s diverse languages, regions, and creative voices are more fully celebrated on a continental stage,” the statement added.
The awards ceremony is scheduled to hold in Lagos in May 2026.