A Night of Legacy, Film and Celebration at the 2026 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards 

The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards night took on a new height of splendour and legacy as stars and personalities converged in celebration of the strides African cinema has come.  And as a result of the remarkable success of African Cinema, Johnnie Walker joined lovers of the form and other dignitaries in celebrating the achievements of the industry and the notable icons of the industry. 

Amongst the eminent personalities of the night were Sola Sobowale and Kanayo O. Kanayo who were particularly decorated with the Industry Merit Awards for their perennial contribution to the industry. 

As a Nigerian and African icon, Sola Sobowale boasts of a career that is an emblem of brilliance, and commitment to top-of-the-drawer performances. She has treated fans and enthusiasts of the form to the best of scenes for decades, to the extent of shaping the industry. 

In equal measure of industry-bending brilliance, Kanayo O. Kanayo’s presence has been enduring and unyielding for so long. His contributions have deified him as one of the faces of Nollywood’s. Through his accomplishment he is one of the icons of African cinema to gain a household status. 

Presenting the awards were Joke Silva and Godfrey Adejumoh, who is DIAGEO’s Head of Corporate Relations for South, West and Central Africa. According to the Head of Culture, Influencer and Advocacy at Diageo South, West & Central Africa, while the AMVCA has always been notable for its distinction, this year’s was a step further to “to celebrate and recognize moments of arrival that mark the journey toward meaningful destinations.” She added that “at Johnnie Walker, we believe progress is nothing without the people who made it possible. Honoring these veterans isn’t just a gesture, it’s a responsibility we are proud to carry.”

In addition to the celebration, filmmakers, icons, and industry personalities came together under Blue42 After-Party, hosted by  Johnnie Walker and headline sponsor Don Julio. This marked the first time both brands would come together to honour the growing industry of the continent. 

Johnnie Walker provided guests with an arranged and organised Johnnie Walker whisky expression to set the spirit right for the night. With performances from Odumodublvck and Liquorose and involvements from top-tier DJs — Dope Caesar, Titanium, and Shawn, the night was definitely one to remember.