AMVCA 2025 Best Lead Actress nominees unveiled! See the standout Nollywood stars vying for the coveted title this May

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), Nigeria’s biggest celebration of film and television excellence, returns this May for its 11th edition and the excitement is already building.

Also read: ‘See list’ AMVCA nominees anounced, Funke Akindele, Nancy Isime, made cut

Presented annually by MultiChoice, the AMVCA honours outstanding performances across Nollywood’s film, television, and digital content landscape.

Among the most closely-watched categories is “Best Lead Actress”, and this year’s lineup is a dazzling mix of veteran performers and rising stars.

Here are the leading ladies whose gripping performances have earned them a shot at AMVCA gold:

#1. Chioma Akpotha – Queen Amaka in Seven Doors

Chioma brings grace and emotional depth to her role as Queen Amaka, an Igbo woman navigating love, culture, and power in pre-colonial Nigeria.

Her union with a Yoruba king, played by Femi Adebayo, is tested by tradition when he must marry six more women. Chioma’s portrayal of love, loss, and duty in this historical drama is both powerful and poignant.

#2. Gbugbemi Ejeye – Funmi in Farmer’s Bride

In a gripping tale set in 1980s Ibadan, Gbugbemi plays Funmi, a young bride trapped in a joyless marriage. Her quiet rebellion through an illicit affair sets off a chain of events with devastating consequences. Gbugbemi’s emotionally restrained yet expressive performance makes this role unforgettable.

#3. Uche Montana – Annie in The Thin Line

Uche captivates as Annie, a sex worker who blackmails a respected pastor with whom she shares a secret. Her performance explores vulnerability, manipulation, and desperation in a story that unearths the dark underbelly of power and shame.

#4. Uzoamaka Aniunoh – Ewura-Ama in Phoenix Fury

Uzoamaka plays a fierce protagonist in Phoenix Fury, rising from betrayal and destruction to reclaim power in a politically-charged drama. Her performance is fiery, emotional, and inspiring.

#5. Hilda Dokubo – Ebiere in The Uprising: Wives on Strike 3

Veteran actress Hilda Dokubo delivers a commanding performance in the continuation of the Wives on Strike saga, portraying Ebiere, a woman leading a domestic revolution for justice. Her mix of humour and gravitas resonates with viewers across generations.

#6. Bimbo Ademoye – Queen Arolake in Anikulapo

Bimbo transforms into Queen Arolake, a woman whose quest for love and vengeance shapes the fate of an entire kingdom. Her regal presence and intense emotion shine through in this epic fantasy tale.

#7. Uzoamaka Onuoha – Agatha in Agemo

Uzoamaka delivers a nuanced performance as Agatha, a woman entangled in myth, magic, and moral dilemmas. Her role bridges supernatural folklore and human emotion, making Agemo one of the most unique entries this year.

Also read: [ICMYI]FULL LIST: AMVCA 2024 nominations

The 2025 AMVCA will air live this May, bringing glamour, suspense, and celebration to fans across Africa. With such an impressive list of nominees, this year’s Best Lead Actress category is sure to be a highlight of the night.