A wave of emotion filled the Moremi Hall at the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, on Wednesday night as the Africa Film Academy (AFA) unveiled the nominees for the 20th edition of the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA). The event was particularly poignant as attendees paid heartfelt tributes to the late founder of the organization, Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, who passed away early last year after a brief illness. Her family has committed to preserving her legacy by continuing the prestigious awards ceremony.
A Tribute to a Visionary
During the event, dignitaries, including prominent actors, actresses, businessmen, and government officials, shared their cherished memories of Peace Anyiam-Osigwe. Raymond Anyiam-Osigwe, director of the Board of AFA and CEO of AMAA, spoke about his late sister’s vision for AMAA and the determination to keep her dream alive.
Filmmakers in attendance, such as Sunny McDon, Queen Blessing Ebigieson, and Tony Anih, the Chief Operating Officer of AMAA, expressed their gratitude that Peace’s vision continues to thrive, even in her absence.
Record Entries and Leading Nominations
According to Dr. Shaibu Husseini, Executive Director of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), this year saw a remarkable total of 368 entries.
Leading the nominations is the film “The Weekend,” which received 16 nominations, including Best Film, Best Director, and Achievement in Cinematography. Following closely is South Africa’s “The Queenstown Kings,” with 15 nominations across several categories. Other notable films include “This is Lagos,” “Under The Hanging Tree,” and “Out of Breath,” each securing 9 nominations. The popular film “Jagun Jagun” by Nigerian filmmaker Femi Adebayo also made the list with seven nominations, showcasing the rich talent present in African cinema.
Celebrating African Creativity
The 20th edition of AMAA is being organized in partnership with the Lagos State Government, under the theme “Celebrating African Creativity.”
Anyiam-Osigwe also outlined some key activities planned for the 2024 edition, including:
- Launch of the AMAA Coffee Book
- AMAA Africa Night of Legends
- AMAA Meets Nollywood
- AMAA Africa Fashion Show and Exhibition
- The grand AMAA Gala Night
These activities will kick off with the unveiling of nominees and award categories selected by the AMAA College of Screeners and the jury. The AMAA Coffee Book launch is scheduled for October 25, with subsequent events leading up to the awards ceremony and gala night on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.
The AMAA 2024 promises to be a grand celebration of African cinema, creativity, and the enduring legacy of its founder, Peace Anyiam-Osigwe.