The 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) in Nigeria showcased a blend of African film, television, and digital storytelling, with celebrities also competing as much for being best-dressed as for awards. The annual ceremony took place at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, transforming the event into a spectacle of fashion and culture.

Red Carpet Turns into a Bakery

Reality TV star Queen Mercy Atang made one of the most talked-about appearances, wearing a dress made from more than 500 loaves of bread; Surrounded by two maidens carrying trays of bread and several assistants, Atang struggled to move freely in the extravagant outfit.

Speaking to the BBC. Atang explained that the dress was designed to promote her bread-baking business and insisted it was intentional marketing rather than shock value, but she noted that the AMVCA was the best place to advertise her brand.

The dress was designed by Toyin Lawan of Tiannah’s Empire, who shared on Instagram that she is beginning a trend of “everyone wear your business.” The look quickly became one of the night’s biggest social media talking points.

Architectural Inspiration and Cultural Representation

Ghanaian fashion star Nana Akua Addo made another dramatic fashion statement with a silver architectural dress inspired by Cologne Cathedral in Germany, as the heavily structured outfit featured hand-painted window-like details and cathedral-shaped extensions, with members of her team helping carry sections of the dress.

Her designer, Abasswoman, told the BBC the design process began in November 2025 and was completed just two days before the ceremony, and the outfit was intended to reflect grandeur and craftsmanship, drawing inspiration from the cathedral’s construction.

Nigerian actress Uche Montana arrived in a dramatic red-and-gold-feathered ensemble, representing “fire” and “the rising of the phoenix.” She said the look had been in development since the beginning of the year and had spent “a lot” on bringing the design to life.

Montana also received the AMVCA Trailblazer Award for her contributions to the industry; she emphasized that there is often a misconception that celebrity glamour is entirely free, highlighting the financial and mental work that goes into these appearances.

Emotional Wins and Historical Moments

Actor Bucci Franklin won Best Supporting Actor for his role as “Oboz” in “To Kill a Monkey.” His performance resonated strongly with many viewers, particularly in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region. Franklin dedicated his award to his mother, whom he lost seven days before the film’s release.

Linda Ejiofor made history by winning both Best Lead Actress for “The Serpent’s Gift” and Best Supporting Actress for “The Herd,” becoming the first person to win both awards at the AMVCA. She reflected on the emotional significance of the wins and acknowledged her family’s support, including her mother’s help in refining her language delivery.

“My Father’s Shadow” continued its streak of global recognition, winning Best Movie, Best Director, and Best Writing, and Directed by Akinola Davies Jr, the film was the first Nigerian production to be an official selection at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in 2025. It also won Best Cinematography.

Uzor Arukwe won Best Lead Actor for “Colours of Fire,” and industry veterans Sola Sobowale and Kanayo O — Kanayo were honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards. Kanayo O Kanayo described his outfit as representing “ripping in godfatherism, old money and tailored mafia,” styled by Prinz Innovation.

Nigerian actor Stan Nze was styled in a black apparel and carried his signature traditional engraved hand fan made with horse skin. Tobi Bakre brought Yoruba royalty to the carpet in a traditional agbada designed by Deji and Kola with a custom-made brass staff.

Monica Friday showcased flags of seven countries, including Iran, embroidered on her purple ball gown, describing her outfit as a tribute to “a bleeding world” and an appeal for peace. Actress Osas Ighodaro, who has won the AMVCA’s best-dressed award for several years, wore a Veekee James silver corset flowing dress adorned with hundreds of stones and crystals.

Digital creators also made an impact, with reality TV star OJ Posharella gracing the red carpet with a giant bow on her head and a multi-layered colorful outfit she designed herself.