Nollywood luminaries and other screen celebrities dazzled the AMVCA red carpet with their elegant attire. The iconic Eko Hotel and Suites in Victoria Island Lagos played host to the 10th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), where top talents from across Africa gathered to celebrate. Presented by Multichoice and inaugurated in 2013, the AMVCA has consistently recognized outstanding film and television artists across Africa.
Although renowned for drawing Nollywood’s elite and beyond, the awards ceremony has equally become celebrated for the captivating fashion statements made by its attendees on the red carpet.
The AMVCA red carpet now holds as much anticipation as the show itself, with its best-dressed awards. This year, as with every other, everyone showcased their finest looks.
Here are our top picks from the red carpet:
Toke Makinwa
Toke Makinwa, a prominent figure in Nigerian media, captivated us all at the 2024 AMVCA with her captivating ensemble created by renowned Nigerian designer Veekee James. Makinwa, who graced the red carpet as a host, chose to embrace a minimalist approach, allowing the striking silver, inverted orb-like shapes of her dress to make a powerful statement on their own, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.
Nana Akua Addo
Nana Akua Addo, a renowned Ghanaian actor and media personality, is celebrated for numerous achievements, including her remarkable appearances on the AMVCA red carpet. In this year’s event, Addo made a striking choice by donning a mesmerizing 3D-engineered dress crafted by the talented Heidi Lee, who has previously designed for none other than Beyoncé. Collaborating with Ghana-based designer Yoli Koomson, Addo’s dress captivates with its seemingly effortless yet intricate petal patterns that gracefully adorn the entire length. To complete her ensemble, she opted for a sleek, slicked-back bun hairstyle and kept her accessories minimal, allowing the dress to take centre stage.
Elozonam
Elozonam, a Nigerian media personality and former Big Brother Naija housemate introduced a refreshing and ethereal take on the traditional tuxedo attire commonly seen on male attendees at the AMVCA. Making a statement, the talented actor, known for his role in “The Weekend To Forget,” donned a unique ensemble created by Jeff Urban. Elozonam’s outfit featured a white suit-like garment complemented by flowing pants elegantly crafted beneath a half-skirt. To add a touch of elegance, he adorned the ensemble with a milky white rose and completed the look with stylish white shoes.
Adunni Ade
Amidst a year marked by bold and theatrical fashion choices, actress Adunni Ade embraced a different approach by exuding understated elegance and allure. Her ensemble, curated with meticulous care, showcased a black gown accentuated by delicate white tulle, beautifully harmonizing elements of contrast. Adding a touch of sophistication, she adorned her attire with long, gracefully bowed gloves designed by the talented Nigerian designer Ann Cranberry. The result was a breathtaking, unforgettable red carpet appearance that left a lasting impression.
Chioma Ikoku
Starting the evening in style, Chioma Ikoku, a renowned media personality and star of the hit show “The Real Housewives of Lagos,” made a stunning entrance with her choice of attire. Opting for a mesmerizing combination of gold and caramel hues, she donned a remarkable ensemble crafted by the talented designer Weizdhurm Franklyn. Ikoku’s dress effortlessly captures a sense of opulence and artistry. The corset is adorned with delicately strung gold petals, while the lower part showcases a captivating deconstructed train. Keeping her accessories tastefully minimal, Ikoku allowed the dress to take centre stage, creating a truly enchanting and unforgettable look.
Chimezie Imo
Nigerian actor Chimezie Imo not only received the prestigious Trailblazer Award at this year’s ceremony, recognizing his remarkable performances in films such as “Over The Bridge” and “Breath of Life,” but he also made an unforgettable fashion statement. Imo graced the occasion in a striking suit crafted by the esteemed British Nigerian brand, The Kingsmen. His ensemble showcased a captivating blend of deep, dark droplets on a blood-red fabric, beautifully accentuating his physique. The combination of colours and patterns exuded a captivating aura, further enhancing Imo’s presence at the event.
Uche Montana
Nigerian actress Uche Montana effortlessly captured the hearts of onlookers with her mesmerizing crimson and gold ensemble designed by the talented Veekee James. Adorned in a breathtaking gown, Montana’s attire boasted a graceful, flowing train adorned with delicate feathery trimmings. The dress showcased a clever interplay of lace and sheer fabric, artfully crafted to reveal hidden surprises. Notably, subtle elements such as a heart-shaped motif near the bodice’s top and another heart-shaped detail on the elbow area added a touch of whimsy to the overall design. Montana radiated an aura of stunning elegance and regality, leaving a lasting impression on all who witnessed her presence.
Richard Mofe Damijo
Richard Mofe Damijo, the esteemed Nigerian actor, was a picture of elegance as he received a well-deserved lifetime achievement award at the 2024 AMVCA. Nominated for Best Actor for his exceptional performance in the Netflix sensation “The Black Book,” Damijo made a striking fashion statement. He chose to grace the occasion in a deconstructed Agbada ensemble, masterfully crafted by Deji and Kola. The outfit, fashioned from a stunning purple aso-oke fabric, showcased intricate designs that gracefully adorned its entirety. To complete his impeccable look, Damijo donned a long flaps cap and carried a regal purple beaded staff, exuding an air of timeless sophistication and cultural pride.
Simi Drey
Simi Drey, a Nigerian actress and host, made a captivating fashion choice by donning a black ensemble designed by Midé. The focal point of her outfit was a mesmerizing display of dripping diamonds, resembling a chandelier-like motif. This exquisite detail transformed what would have been an otherwise understated garment into a captivating piece of artistry. Simi Drey effortlessly embraced a balance between elegance and subtlety, making a statement that resonated with both sophistication and refined taste.
Waje
Waje, the talented singer and songwriter, chose stylishly by selecting a black and white ensemble created by Style Dejavuu. The dress boasted an alluring plunging neckline, accentuated by a silver clinch that added a touch of elegance. Its classic train gracefully enhanced the overall silhouette, creating a flattering and timeless look. To complement her attire, Waje adorned herself with a dazzling diamond necklace, adding a touch of glamour. Her hair, worn straight, added a sleek and polished finish to the ensemble, completing her captivating appearance.
