Veteran actors Sola Sobowale and Kanayo O. Kanayo were honoured with the prestigious Industry Merit Award at the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards held on Saturday night in Lagos.
The non-competitive award, presented annually by Africa Magic, recognises veterans who have made exceptional and enduring contributions to African film and television through acting, directing, producing, mentorship and the advancement of the industry.
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This year’s recipients were celebrated for careers spanning more than three decades, during which they have played pivotal roles in shaping Nollywood’s growth into one of the world’s most influential film industries.
Sobowale received her award to a standing ovation, followed by Kanayo, whose acceptance speech drew emotional applause as he paid tribute to the many filmmakers who laid the foundation of the industry.
Sola Sobowale: The Reigning Queen Of Powerful Performances
Born on December 26, 1965, in Ifon, Ondo State, Sobowale is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished actresses.
A versatile performer, producer and director, she began her acting career in the early 1990s and quickly gained prominence through television and stage productions, including The Village Headmaster and Mirror in the Sun.
Her breakthrough came in 2001 when she portrayed the unforgettable character “Toyin Tomato” in Super Story: Oh Father, Oh Daughter, a role that cemented her place in the hearts of millions of viewers.
Sobowale’s career reached new heights with her commanding portrayal of Eniola Salami in King of Boys, a performance that earned her Best Actress in a Leading Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards.
Her extensive filmography also includes The Wedding Party, Aníkúlápó, Battle on Buka Street and Her Excellency.
In her acceptance speech, Sobowale thanked her fans and colleagues for their unwavering support.
“For all the fans, thank you for still making me relevant. Mi o ti de,” she said, a Yoruba expression meaning that she still has much more to offer.
She also expressed gratitude to directors, producers, colleagues and friends, noting that her success would not have been possible without their support.
Kanayo O. Kanayo: Nollywood’s Consummate Veteran
Born Anayo Modestus Onyekwere on March 1, 1962, in Mbaise, Imo State, Kanayo is one of Nollywood’s most respected actors and one of the pioneering faces of the industry.
He made his cinematic breakthrough in Living in Bondage, the landmark Igbo-language film widely credited with ushering in the modern video-film era in Nigeria.
Known initially for his memorable portrayals of complex and often villainous characters, Kanayo has demonstrated remarkable range over the years, appearing in more than 100 films, including Family Battle, Living in Bondage: Breaking Free, Lionheart and the television sitcom Professor Johnbull.
Beyond acting, Kanayo is also a trained lawyer, having been called to the Nigerian Bar in 2020, and a recipient of the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
In his acceptance speech, he dedicated the award to the countless cast and crew members who have worked tirelessly to build the industry.
“This is for Africa, for everyone who works as cast or crew. Many of us are no longer in good health, many have returned to their villages, and many have passed on,” he said.
He also used the occasion to condemn xenophobic attacks against Africans in South Africa, urging greater solidarity across the continent.
“We are not happy. As Africans, we cannot continue running from Africa,” he said.
Honour Reserved For Industry Builders
The AMVCA Industry Merit Award is regarded as one of the highest honours in African entertainment, recognising individuals whose careers have left an indelible mark on the industry.
Previous recipients include Olu Jacobs, Pete Edochie, Patience Ozokwor, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Nkem Owoh and Sani Mu’azu.
By honouring Sobowale and Kanayo together, the 2026 ceremony celebrated two of the most enduring figures in Nigerian cinema, icons whose work has bridged generations and whose performances continue to define the excellence and global reach of Nollywood.
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