Nigeria’s Official Selection Committee has chosen Mai Martaba, an epic Hausa-language film, as the country’s entry for the International Feature Film (IFF) category at the 97th Academy Awards. This selection highlights the film’s compelling themes and impressive visuals.
According to the Committee, Mai Martaba was selected for its exploration of diverse voices in decision-making, inclusive leadership, and its stunning technical and visual quality. Produced and directed by Prince Daniel, the film dives into a transformative story of power, love, greed, and betrayal set in an ancient African kingdom, celebrating female leadership and challenging societal norms.
The NOSC panel includes notable figures such as award-winning filmmaker and Chairperson Stephanie Linus; Directors’ Guild of Nigeria President Victor Okhai; actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde; theatre practitioner Yibo Koko; and film producers and directors like Izu Ojukwu, Emem Isong, and Ali Nuhu, among others.
Filmed in Daura, Katsina State, Nigeria, Mai Martaba depicts a once-thriving kingdom that rose to prominence through the Trans-Saharan trade, only to face a tumultuous internal power struggle within the Agadashawa ruling clan. The film, which debuted theatrically in Nigeria, was also showcased at the Septimius Awards in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Securing the highest votes from the 15-member selection committee, Mai Martaba now awaits a decision from the IFF Executive Committee to proceed to the next stage. The 97th Oscars will take place on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles, and will be broadcast to over 200 territories globally.
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