The Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) invites Nigerian filmmakers to submit their feature films for consideration in the International Feature Film (IFF) category of the 97th Annual Academy Awards (Oscars).

The 97th Oscars ceremony is set for 2 March 2025, broadcasting live from the Dolby Theatre in Ovation Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, United States, to over 200 territories worldwide.

The NOSC, accredited by AMPAS, is responsible for choosing Nigeria’s official entry for the IFF Award. The submission portal will remain at www.thenosc.org from 1 August 2024 to 30 August 2024.

In October 2023, Nigeria selected the Sundance Festival award-winning film Mami Wata as a contender for the 96th Academy Awards’ International Feature Film (IFF) category. Still, it didn’t make it to the final shortlist.

The IFF (formerly Best Foreign Language) Award is presented annually by the Academy to a feature-length film produced outside the United States that contains 50 per cent or more non-English dialogue.

The Academy confers the IFF Award annually to a feature-length motion picture produced outside the United States that contains 50 percent or more of dialogue in a language other than English.

The Academy stipulates that submitted films must meet specific criteria, including accurate, legible English subtitles, adherence to particular shooting formats, and evidence of theatrical release. The NOSC website provides detailed information regarding these requirements.

Chief Tony Okoroji, Chairman of the Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), has expressed deep shock and devastation at the news of the death of iconic singer, Onyeka Onwenu.

Okoroji, reacting to the death of Onwenu, on Wednesday, said, “Nigeria’s creative family has lost a colossus.”

He added: “The Nigerian nation has lost an icon. Onyeka Onwenu was an incredibly talented Nigerian woman in many ways. Her passion for excellence remains unequalled.”

Okoroji, who said he had a close working relationship with Onwenu, described her as a dear friend and a passionate advocate for excellence in the Nigerian music industry.

He recalled their collaborations, including her role as vice president during his tenure as president of PMAN, her service on the Board of Performing and Mechanical Rights Society (PMRS), and contributions to the Board of COSON.

“This is shocking beyond words. Despite our differences in recent times, everyone knows that Onyeka was my dear friend and worked very closely with me in promoting the Nigerian music industry,” he said.

Okoroji fondly remembered the week-long celebration of Onwenu’s 25 years in the industry, with the theme: “All for Onyeka”, which he conceived, funded, and produced with his friend, Patrick Doyle.

He praised Onwenu’s incredible talent, passion for excellence, and unequalled commitment to her craft.

“Onyeka Onwenu was an incredibly talented Nigerian woman in many ways. Her passion for excellence remains unequalled.

“I have just written a tribute on the excellent biography of Ken Calebs-Olumese, the Niteshift Guv’nor who just celebrated his 80th birthday. In the tribute, I mentioned Onyeka Onwenu.

“Not knowing that while I was writing, my friend was in a battle for her life.”

Okoroji acknowledged that while Nigeria will produce other successful female singers, Onyeka Onwenu’s unique impact and legacy cannot be replicated.

Onwenu reportedly collapsed after performing at the 80th birthday party of Stella Okolie, Chief Executive Officer of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, on Tuesday in Lagos.

She was said to have been rushed to Reddington Hospital, where she reportedly passed away.

The Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), has called for entries in various categories ahead of the 2024 Zuma Film Festival (ZUFF) slated for Dec. 1 to Dec.5.

NFC’s Director, Public Affairs, Brian Etuk, made the call in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja, after the corporation has unveiled the date for 14th edition series of the festival.

Etuk said that the entry for the film festival with the theme ‘Digital Renaissance: Embracing the Future”,opens on Aug.1 and closes at midnight (WAT) of Oct. 10.

“The awards categories of ZUFF among others, includes Best Picture, Best Cinematography, Best Director, Best Animation/Cartoon, Best Actress/Supporting Actress, Best Actor/Supporting Actor, Best Documentary, Best Foreign Film.

“Others are Best Student Film, Best Sound, Best Costume, Best Indigenous Films (Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo and any other indigenous film), Best Short Film, Best Skit, Best Music Video and Best Special Effects,” he said.

“ZUFF 2024 vividly captures and projects the vibrant and transformative imperativeness of the digital age in upscaling motion picture practice, that support the growth of creative economies of nations of the world and Nigeria inclusive.

” ZUFF will be celebrating the fusion of creativity and innovation, with emphasis on the role of digital platforms in revolutionising the film industry; with its impeccable capabilities.

” It will also provide inherent opportunities for job creation and wealth generation through effective utilisation of digital tools for storytelling, content production, monetization, exhibition and distribution,” he added.

He further said that they would be high level hybrid (physical and virtual) attendance/participation, with all events streamed online, real-time live on social media handles like the past edition of the film festival.

Etuk said that all films must have been produced between Sept. 1 2022 and Sept.30, 2024.

Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State, has described the death of Nigeria’s Veteran Singer Onyeka, as the exit of a nightingale and a music icon.

Onyeka passed away Tuesday, July 30, in Lagos.

She had just completed a performance at the birthday party of Stella Okoli when she was suddenly rushed to the Reddington Hospital in Lagos.

The governor in his reaction to the news of the music icon’s death on Wednesday in Enugu said, “Onyeka Onwenu was a music icon, a songstress par excellence, and a nightingale personified.

“She was born to sing, and she delivered on her earthly mission in memorable and superlative manners, winning many awards in the process’’.

“The demise of the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu; lawmaker representing Anambra South Senatorial District, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, and the songstress in quick succession has dug a big hole in the hearts of Ndigbo and Nigerians.

“This is yet another sad development for the nation in general and Ndigbo in particular.

“As the late Ghanaian poet and diplomat, Kofi Awoonor, would put it, death has indeed made war upon our house.

He further described Onyeka as a woman of courage, a social crusader, a patriot, and lover of her people, who never shied away from speaking up in defence and advancement of truth, justice and equity.

“Onyeka will be deeply missed, but it is consoling that she lived life to the fullest of her talents, sowing herself indelibly in the heart of humanity.

“She will, like all legends, be remembered for many generations to come. I pray to God to grant her soul eternal repose and comfort her family, the nation, and, indeed, Africa,” Mbah prayed.

Onyeka Onwenu was born in Jan. 1952 and died on July 30. She was a Nigerian singer/songwriter, actress, human rights and social activist, journalist, politician, and former XFactor series judge.

She was dubbed the “Elegant Stallion” due to her significant impact on African culture and entertainment. She was a former chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture.

In 2013, she was appointed the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development. She hailed from Arondizuogu in Ideato North LGA. of Imo state.

The Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and music fans have expressed shock and sadness over the demise of Onyeka Onwenu, aka Elegant Stallion.

It was reported that Onyeka had just completed a performance at the birthday party of Stella Okoli on Tuesday evening when she was suddenly rushed to the Reddington Hospital in Lagos, where she died at the age of 72.

In an interview with NAN on Wednesday in Abuja, Sydney Asowari, PMAN FCT governor said the late singer died at a time when her wealth of experience was mostly needed in the entertainment industry.

According to him, Onyeka’s contributions to the growth of the music industry and her impact will remain indelible on the sand of time.

“It is a great loss to us especially entertainers and musicians because Onyeka was the stallion, one of the founding members of what we are enjoying today.

“It was really devastating when we heard the news, however our solace is in the fact that she died in active service and left unforgettable memories.

“She was a versatile musician that gave us standard and how to use music to preach love, peace and unity among Nigerians and beyond.

“Onyeka Onwenu was a social crusader who always preach love, especially with her popular and timeless song, One love keep us Together.

“It is really sad because we were still tapping from her knowledge and so we are mourning now because this is great loss,” he said.

Also, Mercy Salma, FCT Mayor of AGN, said the passing of the music legend was a big loss to not just the music industry, but the entertainment industry at large.

“The news of the passing of Onyeka Onwenu has struck the entertainment industry with mourning once again, and a lot of actors have been pouring out their hearts in grief.

“We are totally short of words because this is not the news we are expecting in a time like this, because even at 100 she would have still been useful to us.

“I am sure that is not only the movie industry that will miss her, but the music industry, her fans and Nigerians at large will miss her.

“We pray that God grants her family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” she said.

Also, music fans have continued to pay tribute to the late singer on social media (Instagram) space, saluting her contribution to nation building.

@lolarfro Iyogogo, iyogogo,. wrote:… My Mum’s favorite artist, Rest in the Almighty legend, you’ve left a footprint.

Another fan @edopride, said: “A truly beautiful soul has left us….. We lost a musical icon of an era. May her sweet soul rest in peace.

@nomiescakesandevents wrote; Mama thank youuuuu so much for everything you’ve done for our dear country Nigeria. Thank you!!!! May your legacies reign as well stick in our hearts/lives perpetually.

Onwenu was born in 1952, and began her music career in the 1980s with her debut album, “For the Love of You,” in 1981.

She also released numerous albums and singles, including the hit song, “One Love”.

The late music legend also delved into acting, as she featured in several Nollywood films and won numerous awards for her contributions to music and film industry in Africa.

Beside her exploits in the entertainment space, she was also a social crusader and a politician.

She was appointed as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture in 2013 and later became the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development in 2016.

In 2011, she was awarded the National Honours of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) (NAN)

Legendary Fuji musician, Adewale Ayuba, on Wednesday mourned Onyeka Onwenu, Nigeria’s music legend, who died on Tuesday at the age of 72.
Ayuba, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, said Onwenu’s immense contributions to the growth of the entertainment industry would always be revered.
“I celebrate the life of our beloved Onyeka Onwenu. Though she may have been taken from us too soon, her spirit, good works will forever live on in the memories we cherish and the love we shared.
“Many would have ample and lofty things to write about her efforts on Nigeria entertainment industry growth. Onyeka has left this world in glory. May her soul rest in peace,” he said.
Also, Nigerian singer and activist, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, took to X, formerly Twitter, to pay tribute to the late Onwenu.
He wrote: “The Igbo nation mourns the loss of this iconic figure, whose impact transcended the entertainment industry.
“Onwenu’s death follows the recent passings of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu and Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, marking a period of profound loss for the Southeast region of Nigeria.
“Onwenu’s legacy as a cherished talent and tireless advocate will continue to inspire future generations.
Oh! My sister, Rest In Peace.
Similarly, Afrobeat musician, Femi Kuti, expressed shock at the death of Onwenu.
“Shocked, waking up to very sad news of the passing of Mrs Onyeka Onwenu.
“Rest in peace Ma, your beautiful voice will live forever. Condolences to her family and loved ones.”
Nigerian “Galala” singer, Daddy Showkey, with a display of the deceased’s picture on his Instagram page, wrote: “RIP Great Legend Onyeka Onwenu.
“Nobody know the news wey you go hear when you wake up in morning.”
According to reports, Onwenu was born in 1952. She began her music career in the 1980s and released her debut album, “For the Love of You,” in 1981. She has since released numerous albums and singles, including the hit song, “One Love”.
Onwenu has also acted in several Nollywood films and won numerous awards for her contributions to music and film. In addition to her entertainment career, Onwenu has also been involved in politics.
She was appointed as the Chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture in 2013 and later became the Director-General of the National Centre for Women Development in 2016. She was awarded the National Honours of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.

Veteran Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress Onyeka Onwenu has died at 72.
According to reports, she slumped following a performance at Stella Okoli’s birthday party on Tuesday, July 30, 2024.
She was rushed to Reddington Hospital in Lagos. Unfortunately, she didn’t make it.
An eyewitness at the party who confirmed the tragic event said, “It is very sad. Onyeka Onwenu just performed at the birthday of Mrs Stella Okoli today, and after performing, she slumped. She was taken to Reddington Hospital and she couldn’t make it.”
Another eyewitness said, “I have never seen anything like this before. She had just come down from the stage after performing energetically and admirably as always. And went to her seat where she slumped. It is still like a dream.”
Born on January 31, 1952, in Imo State, Nigeria, Onwenu started her career as a singer and quickly rose to prominence with her distinctive voice and meaningful lyrics. Her music often addressed social issues, and she became known as the “Elegant Stallion” for her grace.
She was also a talented actress, starring in numerous Nollywood films where she showcased her versatility and depth. Beyond her work in entertainment, Onwenu was a journalist and politician, serving as the chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture. Her contributions to the music and film industries, as well as her advocacy for women’s rights and social justice, made her an iconic figure in Nigeria and beyond.
Onwenu was a beloved figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry, known for her musical talent and impactful acting career.