One of the biggest occasions for appreciation and acknowledgment in the film business is undoubtedly the Africa Movie Academy Awards. The 18th iteration of the ceremony took place on Sunday, October 20, 2022, in Lekki, Lagos, and it was undoubtedly a glamorous evening devoted to honoring the best in filmmaking.
Comedy duo Chibunna Stanley and Chioma Omeruah, also known as Funnybone and Chigul, as well as TV program personality Kachi Offia served as the event’s hosts.
Different dance teams performed during the ceremony’s opening, while seasoned singer Yinka Davies serenaded guests with a set that had an African flavor. Zadok, the winner of Nigerian Idol 2022, also entertained the crowd.
With a total of eight trophies, Nigerian performers and filmmakers outperformed their African peers.
Among the honors earned by Nigerians are two for Man of God by Bolanle Austen Peters, two for Swallow by Kunle Afolayan, one each for Here Love Lies by Tope Oshin, Underbelly by Tunde Aina, A Song from the Dark by Ogo Okpue, and Jolly Roger by Walter Banger.
Following with four awards each were Surviving Gaza from South Africa and Tug of War from Tanzania. Borga, a German director’s film from Ghana, took third place with three awards.
Idowu Phillips also known as Iya Rainbow, a veteran actress who recently turned 80 years old, received an appropriate birthday present when she was recognized with a lifetime achievement award. Iya Rainbow, who attended the event wearing a white gown from the Cherubuim and Seraphim Church, exclaimed, “AMAA Awards. After my birthday, you still remembered me; I’ve been on stage for 55 years and am 80 years old. I devote this honor to the Almighty, my Creator, my children, and my late husband.
Two iconic entertainers from separate generations delighted the audience, making it entertainment par excellence.
Pop duo P-Square, who recently reconnected after several years of working on their individual careers, were at their most entertaining as they enthralled the audience with some of their hit songs. As if on cue, guests joined in with the music group’s singing while Peter and Paul Okoye enthralled them with various dance moves.
King Sunny Ade, a juju legend, has been entertaining people for decades and has never fallen short. He emphasized to attendees at the AMAA why he is rightfully referred to as the “king of world music.” He teased viewers endlessly with his varied dancing moves and theatrical presence.
