Nollywood Soars As Nigerians Join Oscar Academy’s New Members

In an unprecedented move that signals a significant recognition of the Nigerian film industry, four of its esteemed figures have joined the Oscar Academy’s new membership.

The new Members – Richard Mofe Damijo, C.J Obasi, Jade Osiberu, and Kunle Afolayan – have been invited as part of the 398 new members of the prestigious Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the body responsible for the Oscars.

This landmark achievement, announced by the Academy in its 2023 member intake, further cements Nollywood’s place on the global stage and acknowledges the exceptional contributions these individuals have made to the film industry, not just in Nigeria but worldwide.

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The inclusion of these four Nollywood figures in the Academy is a significant milestone for the Nigerian film industry. It not only validates the progress Nollywood has made but also puts it firmly on the international map. This achievement also opens up more opportunities for Nigerian films to be recognized in the Oscars, particularly with the expanded Best International Feature Film category.

While Nollywood has long been a powerhouse in Africa, producing thousands of films each year, its recognition on the international stage has been comparatively limited. However, with the inclusion of four of its figures in the Academy, this is set to change.

These invitations to the Academy offer a platform for increased representation and diversity in the Oscars voting body, which has been a point of contention in recent years.