Ali Nuhu, Blessing Egbe, Victor Akande join Nigeria Oscars Selection

In a significant development for the Nigerian film industry, renowned actor Ali Nuhu, acclaimed filmmaker Blessing Egbe, and veteran film critic Victor Akande have been appointed to Nigeria’s Oscars Selection Committee. This announcement marks a new chapter in the country’s quest for recognition at the Academy Awards, bringing fresh perspectives and decades of industry experience to the selection process.

The Nigerian Oscars Selection Committee, responsible for choosing the country’s submission for the International Feature Film category at the Academy Awards, has long been a crucial but sometimes controversial body in the local film industry. With the addition of these three respected figures, the committee is poised to enter a new era of credibility and expertise.

Ali Nuhu: Bridging Nollywood and Kannywood

Ali Nuhu, often referred to as the “King of Kannywood,” brings a unique perspective to the committee. With a career spanning over two decades and hundreds of films in both Hausa and English, Nuhu represents a vital link between Nollywood and Kannywood, the two major centers of film production in Nigeria.

Nuhu’s appointment is seen as a step towards greater inclusivity in the selection process. His deep understanding of northern Nigerian cinema and its cultural nuances could prove invaluable in identifying films that truly represent the diversity of Nigerian storytelling.

“I am deeply honored to join the Oscars Selection Committee,” Nuhu said in a statement. “Nigerian cinema is rich and diverse, and I look forward to helping showcase our best work to the world. It’s time for our stories to be heard on the global stage.”

Blessing Egbe: A Voice for New-Age Nollywood

Blessing Egbe, the creator of popular TV series like “Lekki Wives” and “This Thing Called Marriage,” represents the new generation of Nigerian filmmakers pushing the boundaries of storytelling and production quality. Her appointment to the committee signals a recognition of the evolving landscape of Nigerian cinema.

Egbe’s experience in both television and film production brings a valuable perspective to the selection process. Her work often tackles contemporary social issues, a trend that has been gaining traction in Nigerian cinema and could potentially resonate with the Academy.

“Being part of this committee is not just an honor, it’s a responsibility,” Egbe stated. “We have a duty to select films that not only represent the best of our technical and creative abilities but also truly capture the Nigerian experience in all its complexity.”

Victor Akande: The Critical Eye

Victor Akande, a veteran film critic and entertainment editor, rounds out the trio of new appointees. With decades of experience analyzing and critiquing Nigerian cinema, Akande brings a scholarly and analytical approach to the selection process.

Akande’s deep knowledge of film history and his understanding of what makes a film resonate both locally and internationally could prove crucial in identifying Nigeria’s best shot at Oscar recognition.

“As a critic, I’ve long advocated for Nigerian cinema to be recognized on the world stage,” Akande said. “Now, as a member of this committee, I have the opportunity to directly contribute to that goal. It’s a challenge I accept with great enthusiasm.”

The Road to Oscar Glory

Nigeria’s journey at the Academy Awards has been a mix of hope and disappointment. Despite being Africa’s largest film industry, Nigeria has yet to receive a nomination in the International Feature Film category (formerly known as Best Foreign Language Film).

The country’s first-ever submission came in 2019 with Genevieve Nnaji’s “Lionheart.” However, the film was disqualified for having too much English dialogue, a decision that sparked debates about language, colonialism, and the representation of African cinema on the global stage.

Since then, Nigeria has submitted “The Milkmaid” (2020) and “Eyimofe” (2021), both of which failed to make the shortlist. The addition of Nuhu, Egbe, and Akande to the selection committee is seen as a strategic move to improve Nigeria’s chances in future competitions.

As Nuhu, Egbe, and Akande take their places on the Oscars Selection Committee, the Nigerian film industry watches with bated breath. Their appointments represent not just a change in personnel, but a potential shift in the way Nigerian cinema positions itself on the global stage.

Chioma Ude say new chapter for Nigerian cinema

“This is a new chapter for Nigerian cinema,” said Chioma Ude, founder of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF). “With these respected individuals on the committee, we’re not just aiming for an Oscar nomination, we’re repositioning our entire industry for global recognition and success.”

The committee’s first test will come later this year when they select Nigeria’s submission for the 96th Academy Awards. While an Oscar nomination remains the ultimate goal, the real victory may lie in the journey itself – in the conversations sparked, the standards raised, and the dreams inspired across Nigeria’s vibrant film landscape.

As the credits roll on this latest development in Nigerian cinema, one thing is clear: with Ali Nuhu, Blessing Egbe, and Victor Akande at the helm of the selection process, Nigeria’s Oscar dreams have never seemed more tangible. The world is watching, and Nigerian cinema is ready for its close-up.