This landmark achievement, announced by the Academy in its
2023 member intake, further cements Nollywood’s place on the global stage and
acknowledges the exceptional contributions these individuals have made to the
film industry, not just in Nigeria but worldwide.
Veteran actor Richard Mofe Damijo, better known as RMD, has
a career spanning over three decades. With countless accolades to his name, RMD
has been instrumental in shaping Nollywood’s narrative and raising its profile.
His invitation to the Academy is a testament to his enduring influence and the
respect he commands within the international film community.
C.J Obasi, a renowned filmmaker, has continually pushed the
boundaries of Nigerian cinema, blending genres to create unique narratives that
resonate with audiences across the globe. His films, often rich with social
commentary, have been instrumental in diversifying the stories emerging from
Nollywood. Obasi’s induction into the Academy recognizes his innovative
approach to storytelling and his commitment to elevating Nollywood’s
international status.
Jade Osiberu, an accomplished director and producer, has
achieved significant success within the Nigerian film industry. Her films,
which frequently explore the nuances of Nigerian life and culture, have been
lauded for their authentic representation, strong female characters, and
aspirational themes. Osiberu’s inclusion in the Academy further solidifies her
status as a leading voice in Nollywood, and her influence is set to extend even
further on a global scale.
Kunle Afolayan, a multi-talented filmmaker, has been at the
forefront of Nollywood for over a decade. Known for his dedication to quality
and his ability to weave intricate narratives, Afolayan’s films have received
numerous accolades and have been showcased at film festivals worldwide. His
invitation to the Academy underscores his significant contributions to
Nollywood and the wider film industry.
The inclusion of these four Nollywood figures in the Academy
is a significant milestone for the Nigerian film industry. It not only
validates the progress Nollywood has made but also puts it firmly on the
international map. This achievement also opens up more opportunities for
Nigerian films to be recognized in the Oscars, particularly with the expanded
Best International Feature Film category.
While Nollywood has long been a powerhouse in Africa,
producing thousands of films each year, its recognition on the international
stage has been comparatively limited. However, with the inclusion of four of
its figures in the Academy, this is set to change.
These invitations to the Academy offer a platform for
increased representation and diversity in the Oscars voting body, which has
been a point of contention in recent years.
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