His win placed him at the top of a fiercely competitive category that featured some of Nollywood and African cinema’s most recognisable names. Arukwe edged out strong contenders including Mike Ezuruonye for Oversabi Aunty, Lateef Adedimeji for Lisabi: A Legend Is Born, and William Benson for To Kill a Monkey.
Also in contention were veteran and acclaimed performers such as Kanayo O. Kanayo (Grandpa Must Obey), Khumbuza Meyiwa (Bet I Love You), Wale Ojo (3 Cold Dishes), and Femi Branch (Red Circle). The depth of the lineup underscored just how tightly contested this year’s category was.
Industry observers note that the Best Lead Actor award remains one of the most closely followed honours at the AMVCA, often seen as a barometer for outstanding screen performance across African cinema.
Linda Ejiofor Wins Best Lead Actress for ‘The Serpent’s Gift’
The celebration continued on the women’s side, where Linda Ejiofor clinched the Best Lead Actress award for her role in The Serpent’s Gift. Her performance distinguished her in a category filled with equally strong contenders.
She was shortlisted alongside some of the industry’s most respected talents, including Bimbo Akintola, Ifeoma Fafunwa, Ariyike Owolagba, Sola Sobowale, Scarlet Gomez, Genoveva Umeh, and Gloria Anozie-Young.
Her win added another highlight to a ceremony that continues to celebrate excellence in African storytelling across film and television, reinforcing the AMVCA’s reputation as one of the continent’s most prestigious entertainment platforms.