MTN Nigeria strengthened its support for Africa’s fast-growing creative industry at the 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), where the telecommunications company rewarded emerging filmmakers and celebrated outstanding storytelling talent across the continent. The awards ceremony, held at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos, gathered leading actors, producers, directors and entertainment industry stakeholders for one of Africa’s biggest film and television events.
As part of its sponsorship activities at the AMVCA, MTN Nigeria supported the Best Short Film category, a segment dedicated to recognising rising filmmakers shaping the future of African cinema. The winning short film, Hussaini, produced by Orire Nwani and Josh Olaoluwa, secured the prestigious award alongside a N5 million cash prize sponsored by the telecom giant.
Brandspur Brand News reports that MTN Nigeria used the platform to reaffirm its long-term commitment to youth empowerment, creative development and talent discovery within Nigeria’s entertainment ecosystem. Company executives said the initiative aligns with MTN’s broader objective of supporting young Nigerians using storytelling, film and digital creativity to drive cultural influence and economic growth across Africa.
Speaking during the presentation ceremony, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Marketing Officer, Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, noted that the company remains focused on creating opportunities for talented young creatives to thrive within the entertainment sector. She explained that supporting platforms such as the AMVCA enables emerging filmmakers gain visibility, recognition and resources needed to compete on a larger global stage.
The filmmakers behind Hussaini described the recognition as a major career milestone after several previous nominations in the category, adding that the victory would inspire them to pursue bigger projects within the African film industry. Industry stakeholders at the event also praised the increasing role of corporate organisations in strengthening the continent’s creative economy through sponsorships, partnerships and talent development initiatives.
Beyond the awards night itself, MTN Nigeria also participated in other AMVCA-related programmes including the Young Filmmakers Day and the #MTNFilmChallenge, both designed to nurture fresh storytelling talent and encourage more young Africans to explore opportunities within film production, digital media and content creation.
The company’s continued investment in creative initiatives reflects the expanding commercial value of Africa’s entertainment industry, particularly as Nigerian films, music and digital content continue gaining international recognition and attracting global audiences.
