Veteran Nollywood filmmaker Mildred Okwo has dropped a bombshell prediction that is sending shockwaves through the Nigerian film industry. The award-winning director and producer says the 2026 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) may turn out to be the grand farewell edition of the prestigious ceremony.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Okwo expressed strong doubts about the future of the awards following major ownership changes at MultiChoice.
“I will be very surprised if this AMVCA is not the farewell edition.”
She explained her reasoning, pointing at the huge production costs involved.
“I doubt the new owners will be interested in shows that don’t make a serious ROI in the first few years of buying the business. It costs a lot of money to produce that show.”
Her comments come after French media giant Canal+ secured regulatory approval in July 2025 to acquire the remaining shares in MultiChoice. The move is expected to shift the company’s focus heavily toward digital streaming and Showmax, raising serious questions about the long-term viability of expensive live television events like the AMVCA.
The 12th edition of the AMVCA is scheduled to hold on May 9, 2026, with voting already officially closed. The ceremony will be broadcast live on Africa Magic channels, featuring 32 categories, including new awards for Best Indigenous Language Film (North Africa) and Best Indigenous Language Film (Central Africa) aimed at boosting pan-African representation.
Read AMVCA Unveils 2026 Nominees List
Mildred Okwo, a respected figure in Nollywood known for her work as both director and producer, has films that have previously been recognised at the AMVCA and other major awards. Her frank assessment has sparked intense discussions online about the future of Africa’s biggest film and television awards ceremony.
While some industry stakeholders worry that the AMVCA could be at risk under the new ownership structure, others hope the awards will evolve or find new backing to continue celebrating African talent. For now, all eyes are on May 9 as the industry awaits what could potentially be the final glittering night of the AMVCA.