Comedian Bovi Ugboma has expressed excitement ahead of his debut as host of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), describing the opportunity as a major milestone in his career.
Speaking in an interview with Punch Sunday Scoop, Bovi said hosting the awards represents a significant achievement, noting that it adds “a feather” to his accomplishments in the entertainment industry.
“That’s a plus. It’s pretty much the biggest award show in Africa, so for me, it’s a major feather to my heart and a colour to my résumé,” he said.
The comedian admitted that the opportunity came as a surprise, especially given that media personality IK Osakioduwa had hosted the awards since its inception.
“I wasn’t expecting it. Considering IK has been the host from the beginning, I was really happy when I got the call. I saw it as a big plus for me,” he added.
Despite the scale of the event, Bovi dismissed suggestions that performing before a room filled with top filmmakers and actors would be intimidating.
“It’s not actually the hardest audience to hold. Filmmakers understand show business. They come prepared, they come with their A-game, and they are ready to have a good time,” he said.
He revealed that preparations for the ceremony are already underway, stressing the importance of structure and teamwork.
“The AMVCA always has a huge team behind it. As hosts, we are not on stage alone. We are working with a team and for a team, and we are preparing vigorously,” he said.
Beyond the glamour, Bovi described the AMVCA as a critical platform for African storytelling.
“The AMVCA is like a pillar in a skyscraper under construction. Without it, the structure won’t look complete. It has become a cultural event that Africans at home and in the diaspora look forward to,” he said.
He also downplayed the emphasis on winning awards.
“Getting invited, getting nominated, and winning is the same flavor; just with different toppings,” he noted.
Reflecting on his career, Bovi said his comedy has evolved over the years, shifting from exaggerated storytelling to material rooted in current affairs and social realities. He added that adapting to diverse audiences across Nigeria has been key to his growth.
On the broader impact of the awards, he said the AMVCA has helped showcase African talent globally.
“The facts speak for themselves. If it wasn’t impactful, people wouldn’t keep submitting their work year after year. It shows the industry is functioning and that the AMVCA is shining a light on what African filmmakers are capable of,” he said.
Bovi added that his focus is on delivering a memorable show backed by preparation and experience.
Osakioduwa has hosted the AMVCA since its debut in 2013, anchoring the ceremony for over a decade and becoming closely associated with the event.
Bovi and South African award-winning actress and humanitarian, Nomzamo Mbatha, have been officially unveiled as co-hosts of the 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), set to take place on May 9, 2026, at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos.
