ONGA Brings The Taste Of Home To AMVCA 2026, Launches Food Creator Icon Award

The spirit of Taste of Home came alive as ONGA took centre stage at the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA 2026). As the official culinary partner, the brand brought together food, culture, and entertainment in one of the event’s standout experiences, both on-ground and online.

While the AMVCA celebrated excellence in African film and television, ONGA transformed food into a cultural experience, creating moments of connection, flavour, and shared celebration.

A major highlight was the launch of the maiden edition of the ONGA AMVCA Food Creator Icon of the Year Award, an initiative created to spotlight emerging food creators and celebrate culinary storytelling.

Hosted by food creator Omoye Cooks, the competition followed a social media challenge that saw hundreds of entries. Three finalists, Ebi Preye Misongo, Peter Olaniyi, and Rukaiyah Ahmad Idris, earned the chance to compete live on the AMVCA stage.

The finalists were challenged to reinvent akara using innovative presentation, bold flavours, and plantain-inspired creations. The live cookout drew excitement from guests as each contestant showcased creativity and passion through their dishes.

The competition was judged by Chef Nelly, Aramide’s Kitchen, Velvetyfoodies, and Amalisa Kitchen, reflecting ONGA’s commitment to celebrating both tradition and innovation in food culture.

At the end of the competition, Peter Olaniyi emerged the winner, taking home the ₦1 million grand prize and a one-year supply of ONGA products. Rukaiyah Ahmad Idris received ₦300,000 as first runner-up, while Ebi Preye Misongo won ₦200,000 as second runner-up, alongside product supplies and culinary gift items.

Speaking on ONGA’s presence at AMVCA 2026, Omotayo Olaobaju, Culinary Category Manager at Promasidor Nigeria Limited, said: “AMVCA is one of the biggest platforms celebrating African storytelling, culture, and talent, so it was important for us to show up authentically. With the launch of the ONGA AMVCA Food Creator Icon of the Year Award, we wanted to celebrate a new generation of culinary storytellers redefining the Taste of Home experience.”

ONGA also sponsored major AMVCA categories, including Best Lead Actress, won by Linda Ihuoma Ejiofor for The Serpent’s Gift, and Best Indigenous Language Film (West Africa), awarded to Lisabi: A Legend Is Born.

From celebrating African storytelling to empowering food creators, ONGA’s AMVCA 2026 presence reinforced its identity as a brand rooted in flavour, culture, and togetherness.