The Africa Movie Academy Awards is an annual entertainment award ceremony presented to recognize excellence among African and non-African professionals, who have contributed to the African film industry. The award was founded by Peace Anyiam-Osigwe and run by the Africa Film Academy. It is regarded as one of Africa's most notable film events,[1][2][3] and have been sometimes referenced as the "African Oscars".[4][5]
The first Africa Movie Academy Awards was held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, and Nigeria, on 30 May 2005.[6][7] All other subsequent African Academy Awards before 2012 were held at the same venue, except for the 2008 AMAA Awards which was moved to Abuja, FCT for security reasons.[8] In 2012, the awards ceremony was held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos in Lagos State. The 9th and 10th edition saw AMAA returning to Yenagoa, while the 2015 ceremony was held outside Nigeria for the first time.
Where It Has Been Held Over The Years
The Africa Movie Awards, also known as the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), were first held in Yenagoa, Nigeria in 2005 and have since been hosted in various Nigerian cities, usually in Lagos,[9] but also in Abuja for the 4th edition in the year 2008, and once internationally in Kigali, Rwanda in the year 2018. The ceremonies have been held at different venues within these locations, including the Jewel Aeida Hall, Eko Hotels and Suites, Balmoral Center, and the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos. Over time, the AMAA has expanded its reach beyond Nigeria. Though detailed archival venue data is limited, ceremonies have drawn global attention through strategic host cities and online formats particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. This approach reflects AMAA's evolving commitment to inclusion and accessibility across the continent and beyond.
Special Recognition of Pillars of Nollywood (2013 only)
Special Jury Award (2012–present)
Madiba Africa Vision Awards (2014 only)
Best Film for Women Empowerment (2014 only)
Its Impact And Cultural Heritage
AMAA has cemented its role as a catalyst for African cinema. It brings visibility to films in indigenous languages, supports diaspora narratives, and honors technical excellence. The awards foster cross-continental collaboration, spotlight African talent globally, and inspire the next generation of filmmakers.[19]
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