Sola Sobowale and Kanayo O. Kanayo Honoured with Industry Merit Awards at AMVCA 2026

Sola Sobowale and Kanayo O. Kanayo Honoured with Industry Merit Awards at AMVCA 2026

The 2026 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards turned out to be nothing short of grand and excellence, as two of Nollywood’s most respected stars, Sola Sobowale and Kanayo O. Kanayo, were presented with the coveted Industry Merit Award, recognising their decades of impact on African film and television.

The award celebrates entertainers whose work has left a lasting legacy in the industry. And no one can deny the huge impact the two veterans have had on the entertainment industry over the years. For many fans, the recognition of both legends was a fitting tribute to their remarkable careers.

Known for her high performance and very emotional line delivery, she stands among the most seasoned actors Nollywood has ever seen. An emotional Sola Sobowale received the award and thanked her fans for their continued support, saying:

“For all the fans, thank you for still making me relevant. Mi o ti de!”

Meanwhile, Kanayo O. Kanayo was also celebrated for his immense body of work and his enduring influence on the industry. Known for his commanding screen presence and unforgettable performances, Kanayo has remained a household name for more than three decades. While receiving his award, he used the platform to call for attention to the ongoing Xenophobic attacks currently going on in South Africa.

Together, both stars represent pillars of Nollywood, whose work helped shape the industry into the global force it is today.

At AMVCA 2026, with Sola Sobowale and Kanayo O. Kanayo sharing the Industry Merit spotlight, Nollywood paid tribute to two icons whose impact will be felt for generations.