The Nigerian Official Selection Committee for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has invited filmmakers across the nation to submit their feature films for evaluation in the International Feature Film category of the 97th annual Academy Awards, commonly referred to as the Oscars.
The NOSC, which is accredited by AMPAS, is tasked with
selecting Nigeria's official submission for the IFF award.
The IFF announced on Monday that the submission portal is
scheduled to launch on August 1, 2024, and will be accessible until August 30,
2024.
The IFF award recognizes feature-length films made outside
the United States, with at least 50 per cent of dialogue in a language other
than English.
The academy requires that submitted films meet certain
requirements, such as providing clear and accurate English subtitles, following
specific shooting formats, and demonstrating a theatrical release.
The NOSC recently welcomed new members to its ranks, such as
Ali Nuhu, Blessing Egbe, Ijeoma Agu, Kene Okwuosa, and Victor Akande.
Among the returning members are Stephanie Linus, Victor
Okhai, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Andy Amenechi, Yibo Koko, Izu Ojukwu, Emem
Isong, Dimeji Ajibola, Jude Idada, John Njamah, and Meg Otanwa. Linus
emphasized that the diverse backgrounds of the new members will improve the
selection process for Nigeria's best film.
The NOSC was established in 2012 by Chineze Anyaene-Abonyi
and was chaired by her until 2023, when Linus took over.
In 2019, the committee submitted 'Lionheart' for global
awards, directed by Genevieve Nnaji, but it was disqualified for not meeting
the 50% non-English dialogue requirement.
The Nigerian film 'Milkmaid' was in consideration for the
IFF category in 2021, but ultimately did not make the final cut.
Similarly, 'Mami Wata', directed by CJ Obasi, was submitted
for the IFF category in 2023 but did not make the list of nominees.
The 97th Oscars ceremony is scheduled for March 2, 2025, and
will be broadcast live from the Dolby Theatre in Ovation Hollywood, Los
Angeles, California, United States of America.