By Milcah Tanimu
The Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) is calling on Nigerian filmmakers to submit their feature films for the International Feature Film (IFF) category of the 97th Annual Academy Awards (Oscars). Actress Stephanie Linus is leading the committee this year.
The NOSC, accredited by AMPAS, is responsible for choosing Nigeria’s official entry for the IFF Award. The submission portal will be open from August 1, 2024, to August 30, 2024, at www.thenosc.org. The IFF Award is given annually to a feature-length film produced outside the United States with at least 50% of its dialogue in a language other than English.
According to the Academy’s standards, submitted films must meet specific criteria, including providing accurate English subtitles, adhering to particular shooting formats, and showing evidence of theatrical release. Detailed information about these requirements is available on the NOSC website.
The NOSC has also announced the addition of new members, such as Ali Nuhu, managing director of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC); producer and director Blessing Effiom Egbe; actress Ijeoma Grace Agu; Nile Entertainment CEO Kene Okwuosa; and journalist, author, and film critic Victor Akande. Returning members include Victor Okhai, president of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN); veteran actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde; former DGN president Andy Amenechi; theatre practitioner Yibo Koko; writer and director Izu Ojukwu; film producer Emem Isong; director Dimeji Ajibola; writer and director Jude Idada; director John Njamah; and actress Meg Otanwa.
Stephanie Linus noted that the inclusion of new members brings diverse creative backgrounds, enhancing the selection process. The team will collect, screen, and vote on entries to represent Nigeria in the IFF category.
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, to over 200 territories worldwide.
