Diageo has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing African culture, creativity, and economic empowerment through its headline sponsorship presence at the recently concluded Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), one of the continent’s most influential entertainment and cultural platforms.

Through a strong portfolio-led presence across multiple touchpoints, Diageo and its brands played a defining role in shaping the AMVCA experience, contributing not only to entertainment and hospitality but also to the broader creative economy ecosystem that supports thousands of talents, vendors, SMEs, creators, and professionals across Africa.

Anchoring the sponsorship was Don Julio as Headline Sponsor, reinforcing the premium positioning and cultural relevance of the awards. Guinness served as the Official Beer Sponsor while also owning the entertainment experience through electrifying performances from leading artistes including Benson, Fave, Tiwa Savage, and Odumodu Black at the AMVCA after-party.

Across the wider Diageo portfolio, Johnnie Walker Blue Label, Black Label, and Blonde strengthened the company’s premium spirits presence through strategic category integration and award sponsorship moments, while The Singleton delivered a refined whisky experience through its curated Escape Lounge. Orijin championed cultural expression as sponsor of the AMVCA Cultural Day, aligning deeply with heritage, creativity, and African identity. Malta Guinness maintained a strong and consistent presence throughout the celebration as the Official Malt Drink.

Commenting on the partnership, Adebayo Alli, General Manager, Diageo, said:

“At Diageo, we recognize that culture is a powerful driver of connection, creativity, and economic opportunity. Our involvement with AMVCA reflects our commitment to supporting platforms that celebrate African excellence while also contributing meaningfully to the growth of the creative economy and the communities connected to it.”

Also speaking on the significance of the sponsorship, Segun Ogunleye, Head of Marketing Africa Partner Markets, Diageo, stated:

“AMVCA has become one of Africa’s most important cultural moments, and we are proud to be part of a platform that continues to elevate storytelling, talent, entertainment, and innovation across the continent. Through our brands, we are creating experiences that resonate deeply with consumers while supporting an industry that continues to shape Africa’s global cultural influence.”

From filmmakers, fashion designers, makeup artists, production crews, hospitality businesses, content creators, and media professionals, the ripple economic impact of AMVCA continues to extend far beyond the awards stage, creating opportunities for SMEs and driving value across Nigeria’s growing creative economy.

The sponsorship also reinforced Diageo’s long-standing commitment to supporting platforms that celebrate African excellence, elevate local storytelling, and create meaningful cultural connections with consumers and communities.

As part of its participation, senior executives across the Diageo business and portfolio brands presented key award categories during the ceremony, further underscoring the company’s investment in the future of African entertainment and storytelling.

Overall, Diageo’s AMVCA presence showcased the breadth and strength of its portfolio while positioning the business as a key enabler of culture, premium experiences, and industry growth across Africa.

About Diageo:
Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands across spirits and beer categories. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, JεB and Buchanan’s whiskies, Smirnoff and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness.
Diageo is a global company, and our products are sold in nearly 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEO).
For more information about Diageo, our people, our brands, and performance, visit us at www.diageo.com. Visit Diageo’s global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice.