AMAA launches second coffee table book to mark 20th edition
By Tosin Brown
The board of the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) has launched a second coffee table book to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the continental film awards ceremony.
The book launch attracted notable dignitaries and film practitioners from across the country and beyond to the Marriott Hotel in Ikeja GRA, where the event was held.
The event began with an opening speech by AMAA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Raymond Anyiam-Osigwe, who described the AMAA coffee table book as an iconic work capturing AMAA’s history over the past 20 years for posterity.
“We are not just launching a book; we are celebrating my late sister and AMAA founder, Peace Marie Ogechi Anyiam-Osigwe, who is no longer with us. This coffee table book captures all the significant moments of AMAA over the last 20 years. It showcases African brilliance in film, as well as contributions from the diaspora and others who share a love for creativity and African cinema.
“This is an iconic book that not only highlights AMAA’s memorable moments but is also a treasured piece for discussions on African creatives and film practitioners.”
Dr. Anyiam-Osigwe also expressed his excitement about the book launch, noting that it marks the beginning of a series of activities planned for the 20th anniversary of the awards.
He further emphasized that the 20th edition will, as always, offer unforgettable experiences for attendees and guests.
Popular filmmaker Andy Boyo delivered an address and officially launched the book, while Mahmood Alli-Balogun presented the keynote speech. Boyo explained the significance of a coffee table book and why the AMAA coffee table book is a must-have, celebrating 20 years of African arts and film. Alli-Balogun discussed the importance of documenting AMAA’s history and its relevance to African film history.
The first coffee table book was published for AMAA’s 10th edition, serving as a compendium of its first decade. This second edition chronicles AMAA’s 20-year journey, capturing the life of founder Peace Marie Ogechi Anyiam-Osigwe and honoring other key contributors.
The book also showcases past winners, memorable moments, and highlights from each AMAA edition since its inception.
In attendance were members of the Anyiam-Osigwe family, led by matriarch Lady Dorothy Anyiam-Osigwe, including George, Anthony, Charles, Okemute, and Barr. Kennedy Anyiam-Osigwe. Industry giants such as Justice Olayinka Gbajabiamila, Anthony Anih, Charles Otudor, Cornel Udofia, Bond Emeruwa, Andy Boyo, Bimbo Manuel, Greg Odutayo, Francis Onwochie, Mahmood Ali-Balogun, Kingsley James, Zeb Ejiro, Sunny McDon, Prince Tunde Chado, Angela Lance, Florence Okechukwu, Asiodu Henry, Felix Duke, Queen Blessing Ebigieson, and Honourable Bukky Ogunote were also present.
A panel session, moderated by Chinyere Anyiam-Osigwe, featured discussions on the future of Nollywood and the African film industry. Panelists included Zeb Ejiro, Queen Blessing Ebigieson, Greg Odutayo, Bukky Ogunote, and Bond Emeruwa.
