Big Brother Naija star and media personality Uriel Oputa has opened up about her disappointment over missing out on the coveted Best Dressed Female title at the just-concluded 2025 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA). The reality TV star, known for her bold fashion statements, believes her late arrival at the glamorous event cost her a shot at the highly anticipated style award.
The 11th edition of the AMVCA, held on Saturday, May 10, in Lagos, brought together the crème de la crème of the African entertainment industry. Among the standout moments of the night was the crowning of Liquorose Afije, another Big Brother Naija alumna, as the Best Dressed Female. Nigerian actor and television host Prince Nelson Enwerem won the Best Dressed Male honour. Both winners received a N1 million cash prize for their fashion-forward looks.
While Liquorose’s win sparked admiration across social media platforms, Uriel’s reaction offered a different perspective. Taking to her Instagram page shortly after the ceremony, the outspoken star attributed her loss not to a lack of style, but to poor timing.
“This is not to knock anyone’s design. Everyone looked stunning,” she wrote. “But let’s be honest, the only reason I didn’t win Best Dressed is because I was not there on time. Nobody can tell me my dress didn’t eat.”
Uriel, who has consistently turned heads at major red carpet events with her innovative and bold fashion sense, shared videos and pictures of her AMVCA outfit in the same post. Styled in a daring custom gown featuring intricate beadwork and a dramatic train, the fitness and beauty entrepreneur described the ensemble as “elegant and intentional.”
“Everything about this look was crafted to reflect strength, sensuality, and originality. I worked with a fantastic designer who poured their soul into every stitch,” she added.
Uriel’s statement quickly stirred a conversation among fans and fashion lovers online, with many agreeing that she was a strong contender for the award. Some also lamented the role timing played in determining the outcome, questioning whether late arrivals should be automatically overlooked, especially if their outfits are worthy of recognition.
A user on X (formerly Twitter) commented, “Uriel’s dress was a showstopper. It’s such a shame she got there late. Maybe AMVCA should consider a post-event fashion category next time.”
Others praised Liquorose for her fashion consistency and red carpet poise. The former BBNaija finalist stunned in a pearl-encrusted sculptural gown that blended modern couture with Afrocentric elegance. Her look was one of the most talked-about outfits of the night, with fashion analysts describing it as “a visual masterpiece.”
Uriel, however, maintained that her outfit stood out regardless of the outcome. “The AMVCA isn’t just about winning,” she said in a follow-up post. “It’s a platform to express who we are as African creatives, and I’m proud of the statement I made. Whether or not I got the title, I made my mark.”
The 2025 AMVCA wasn’t short on glitz and glamour. The event was a star-studded spectacle featuring performances, tributes, and awards across film, television, and digital content. In addition to BBNaija stars, top Nollywood actors, musicians, content creators, and industry stakeholders graced the event.
Other celebrities who received praise for their red carpet appearances included Sharon Ooja, Osas Ighodaro, and Timini Egbuson, each showcasing designer pieces that celebrated African excellence and innovation.
Uriel’s fashion journey has always been a topic of interest among fans. From her BBNaija days to her rise as a lifestyle influencer, she has consistently leveraged style to make bold statements. Her AMVCA look, she explained, was inspired by “African royalty fused with futuristic elegance.”
“I don’t just wear clothes—I tell stories with what I wear,” she said. “This time, I wanted to represent the strength and grace of the African woman. I didn’t come to play.”
Despite not clinching the award, Uriel expressed gratitude to her supporters, designer team, and fans who flooded her comment section with encouragement. She also used the moment to advocate for more inclusive recognition systems in award shows, suggesting that digital votes or post-event highlights could help include participants who arrive late.
“Sometimes it’s not about who’s first to walk the red carpet, but about who leaves the most lasting impression,” she wrote.
The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards continue to be one of the most prestigious events in the African entertainment calendar. As the influence of African fashion grows globally, awards such as Best Dressed Female and Male now carry considerable cultural and commercial significance. For stars like Uriel, these categories offer more than just bragging rights—they provide a stage to redefine African fashion narratives.
As fans look ahead to the next edition of the AMVCA, Uriel promises to return “bigger, better, and earlier.”
“I’ve learned my lesson,” she joked in a final post. “Next year, I’ll be first on that carpet—and the crown will be mine.”
For now, though, the reality star continues to enjoy widespread admiration for her fearless approach to fashion—and her ability to turn any moment into a bold, unapologetic statement.
