Nigerian talents and productions dominated the spotlight at the 21st Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), held on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at the Balmoral Convention Centre in Ikeja, Lagos. Standout winners included Lateef Adedimeji, Tina Mba, the film ‘Lisabi: The Uprising’, and Burna Boy’s co-produced ‘3 Cold Dishes’, all of whom made bold statements on the continental stage.

The five-hour ceremony opened with a vibrant performance by the Ebony Band and concluded with celebrations for winners and nominees alike. A brief stage drama featured Pete Edochie in the role of God and Tony Umez as a curious inquirer, adding a theatrical flair to the evening.

AMAA CEO Raymond Anyiam-Osigwe delivered the opening address, praising Nigerian and African filmmakers for elevating African cinema to global recognition. Six elegantly dressed jury members then presented the night’s 26 award winners, spanning actors, producers, cinematographers, costume designers, and lighting technicians.

“We salute Nollywood, its stars, and all the creatives who have contributed to its phenomenal success,” Anyiam-Osigwe said. “Your accomplishments have propelled African cinema to international recognition, and AMAA honors your industry, your talent, and your contributions. Yet as remarkable as Nigeria’s film industry is, a tree does not make a forest. The finest contribution comes when African nations rise together through collaboration, not competition.”

The festivities continued with a thrilling performance by the Rizyn Band, keeping the 300 guests entertained long after the awards were handed out.

From actors to technical crew, AMAA 2025 celebrated the depth and diversity of African filmmaking, reaffirming the continent’s growing influence on the global cinema stage.