AMVCA 2026 Honours Kanayo O. Kanayo and Sola Sobowale with Industry Merit Awards as Icons Reflect on Legacy and Unity

The 2026 edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards delivered one of its most emotional highlights on Saturday night as veteran actors Kanayo O. Kanayo and Sola Sobowale were honoured with the prestigious Industry Merit Award at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos.

The award recognises their decades of outstanding contribution to Nollywood and their enduring influence as two of the industry’s most respected screen legends.

Receiving her award, Sola Sobowale expressed gratitude to God, her colleagues, fans, and most especially her children, describing motherhood as a journey that has supported rather than slowed her career.

“I want to specially thank God Almighty for keeping me till this day. I thank my children… I thank my fans because without you, there is no Shola. It truly is an honour,” she said.

On his part, Kanayo O. Kanayo used his moment on stage to speak on broader social issues, calling attention to xenophobic attacks in South Africa and urging unity and humanity across borders.

Opinion: A Well-Deserved Recognition That Speaks Beyond Film

Honouring Kanayo O. Kanayo and Sola Sobowale at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards goes beyond nostalgia—it is a reminder of how foundational their work has been to modern Nollywood.

What stands out is not just their longevity, but their continued relevance in a fast-changing industry. Sola Sobowale’s emotional acknowledgment of her family also reflects something often overlooked: the personal sacrifices behind long careers in entertainment.

Kanayo O. Kanayo’s decision to use the spotlight to address xenophobia adds another layer, showing how veteran actors increasingly see their platform as a voice for societal reflection, not just performance.

In many ways, this year’s Industry Merit Award felt less like a farewell to legacy stars and more like a reminder that they are still very much shaping the conversation.