Director Grace Yakubu has described the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) nominations for her film Aljana as a significant personal milestone.
Aljana received three nominations at the 12th edition of the awards, including Best Supporting Actress for Nadia Dutch, Best Art Director for Olatunji Afolayan and Gideon O. Stephen, and Best Indigenous Language (West Africa).
Speaking on the recognition, Yakubu said the film reflects a story she felt compelled to tell. According to her, Aljana explores the lives of people often stigmatized for being different, presenting a reality that cuts across cultures.
She noted that the project marks her directorial debut after years working as a photographer and television content producer. The transition, she said, came with uncertainty. Yakubu acknowledged that the journey to completing the film involved moments of self-doubt, which makes the nominations more meaningful.
For Yakubu, the recognition also affirms the collective effort behind the project. She expressed appreciation for the team and supporters who contributed to the film based on belief in the story.
The nominations place Aljana among other contenders in the Best Indigenous Language (West Africa) category, including The Serpent Gift, Lisabi: A Legend Is Born, Labake Okododo, and Olorisha.
As the awards approach, Yakubu’s focus remains on the film’s message and its reception, with the nominations serving as an early acknowledgment of its impact.