The 21st edition of the Africa Movie Academy Awards, held on November 9, 2025, at the Balmoral Convention Centre in Lagos, Nigeria, unfolded as a vibrant celebration of African creativity, cinematic innovation, and artistic excellence. The ceremony, long regarded as the most prestigious film event on the continent, brought together filmmakers, actors, industry leaders, and enthusiasts from Africa and the diaspora for a night marked by elegance, emotion, and cultural pride. From the energy on the red carpet to the emotional acknowledgements of achievement in film, AMAA 2025 stood as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the growing global relevance of African cinema.
The event began with an air of glamour as stars arrived draped in a striking fusion of high fashion and African aesthetics. The red carpet glowed under bright lights and camera flashes, showcasing the continent’s rich tapestry of style. Bold prints, intricately beaded gowns, sculpted avant-garde pieces, and regal traditional attires became expressions of personal identity and cultural heritage. Actors and filmmakers alike embraced the moment, knowing the AMAA stage remains one of Africa’s grandest platforms for both artistic and sartorial statements. Every pose, every smile, and every shared moment reflected the collective pride of an industry that continues to evolve and inspire.
Inside the grand hall, the ceremony commenced with electrifying performances by Made Kuti, the Rizyn Band, and the Ebony Band, whose rhythmic expressions created a festive yet intimate atmosphere. A short theatrical presentation featuring legendary Nollywood icon Pete Edochie added a sense of nostalgia and reverence for the pioneers who paved the way. AMAA CEO Raymond Anyiam-Osigwe, in his opening remarks, applauded the strides African filmmakers have taken in pushing the boundaries of narrative, technology, and representation. He emphasized the significance of collaboration among nations, reminding everyone that African cinema grows stronger when united in purpose.
The awards themselves revealed the depth and diversity of talent across the continent. South Africa’s “The Heart is a Muscle” emerged as one of the night’s biggest triumphs. Its raw emotional storytelling and impressive technical execution earned it the coveted Best Film award, alongside wins in Cinematography, Editing, and Best Debut Feature for director Imran Hamdulay. The film’s success reaffirmed South Africa’s consistent contribution to elevating African film to global standards. Nigeria also celebrated major victories, particularly with “3 Cold Dishes,” a film co-produced by music sensation Burna Boy. It captured the Best Nigerian Film and Best Achievement in Production Design awards, proving that cross-industry collaborations continue to enrich cinematic output. Rising star Ruby Akubueze’s win as Best Young/Promising Actor for her performance in the film further emphasized the growing presence of bold new voices in Nollywood.
Burkina Faso’s “Katanga: Dance of the Scorpions,” which led with ten nominations, lived up to expectations by securing several significant wins, including Best Film in an African Language, Best Screenplay, and Best Costume Design. Its recognition highlighted the strength of indigenous storytelling and the beauty of films that remain deeply rooted in local cultures. In the acting categories, several performers were celebrated for their outstanding portrayals. Lateef Adedimeji won Best Actor in a Leading Role for his compelling performance in the Nigerian historical epic “Lisabi: The Uprising,” while Tina Mba earned recognition for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her impactful role in “The Serpent Gift.” Meanwhile, an exceptional trio Osas Ighodaro, Fat Toure, and Maud Guerard won Best Actress in a Leading Role for their shared performance in “3 Cold Dishes,” an unusual but powerful acknowledgment of ensemble artistry.
The Best Director category was highly competitive, featuring filmmakers from various regions of Africa, each representing a unique approach to storytelling. Nigeria’s Niyi Akinmolayan was recognized for his directorial command in “Lisabi: The Uprising,” while South Africa’s Imran Hamdulay, Uganda’s Asher Rosen, Burkina Faso’s Dany Kouyaté, Ethiopia’s Theodros Teshome, and Algeria’s Chakib Taleb-Bendiab also stood out for their impressive contributions. Their nominations and recognitions reflected a continent whose filmmakers are experimenting with form, embracing technology, and challenging narrative conventions.
Behind the glamour and the accolades lies the remarkable legacy of the Africa Movie Academy Awards. Founded in 2005 by the visionary Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, AMAA has consistently championed African storytelling, offering a platform where filmmakers from all parts of the continent can receive international visibility and honour. Over the years, the ceremony has expanded from a one-night event to a year-round ecosystem of training, development, and engagement with film practitioners. It remains a unifying force that celebrates not only excellence but also the cultural and historical significance of African narratives.
AMAA 2025, with its mix of artistic brilliance, personal triumphs, and cultural celebration, reaffirmed the significance of cinema as a tool for preserving history, shaping identity, and projecting African voices to the world. As attendees mingled after the ceremony, taking final photographs and sharing emotional moments, there was a clear sense that African cinema is entering yet another era of growth. With new talents rising, established voices evolving, and a global audience increasingly eager for African stories, the future promises even greater achievements. The 21st AMAA not only honoured the past year’s accomplishments but also ignited fresh anticipation for the stories yet to be told, crafted, and celebrated across the continent
