After months of anticipating the usual events that signal the approach of Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards -
AMVCA, which has rewarded excellence in TV and film for five years since 2013, will hold on September 1, 2018.
According to the organizers, the entries for the AMVCAs will open on March 1, 2018, and close on April 30, 2018.
Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu, Director of M-Net West Arica, said:“Nearly one year after the last AMVCAs, we are pleased to announce the call to entry for the 2018 edition of the Awards.
“The African movie and television industry is brimming with exciting talents, and at Africa Magic we contribute to the industry.
“We give these talents the platform to showcase their skills and passion, celebrate their achievements whilst also encouraging them to continue honing their craft.”
For 2018 there are 27 categories in all, with seven open to viewers and 20 decided by the AMVCA panel of judges.
The annual event which was previously sponsored by Amstel Malta, also returns with new sponsors: Konga and supported by Nokia Phones and Heritage Bank.
Why there was a delay with the 2018 AMVCAs
For five consecutive years, the ceremony took place in the month of March. According to the Africa Magic's head of publicity, Efosa Aiyevbomwan, the delay was not as a result of lack of funds or sponsors.
He told Channel24 that the delay was because of the ongoing Big Brother Naija show, and the anticipated FIFA World Cup in June, both of which would clash with the planning, execution and broadcast of the ceremony.
AMVCA over the years
The 2013 edition was co-hosted by IK Osakioduwa and Vimbai Mutinhiri. The winners' list was led by Akin Omotoso's "Man on Ground," while IvieOkujaiye and Olu Jacobs were honoured with the TrailBlazer and Industry Merit Awards, respectively.
In 2014, celebrities reassembled at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island for the sophomore edition, which was hosted by Osas Ighodaro, Osakioduwaand Vimbai.
In 2015, IK and Vimbai returned as co-hosts, while Kunle Afolayan's "October 1" dominated the night.
In 2016, Bukky Ajayi and Sadiq Daba received the "Industry Merit Award" for their contribution to the growth of the Nigerian film industry.
In 2017, for its fifth edition, the show returned with an underwhelming nominee list,but a warm ceremony that promised better seasons.
There have been no details on the host or venue.