In an official statement released by NOSC Chairperson Stephanie Linus revealed that the committee opened its call for entries in August and received six films for consideration. However, following a meeting held on September 26, the committee voted by majority to make “No Submission,” effectively ending the selection process for this year.

“While Nigerian films have no doubt shown significant improvement and a growing awareness of IFF standards, there is still a deficit in creative and technical intentionality that will improve their competitive potential for global awards,” Linus stated.

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She added that the decision has been formally communicated to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Expressing disappointment that no entry met the selection criteria, Linus emphasized the need for Nigerian filmmakers to raise their standards in order to compete on the global stage.

“This is why the NOSC will be taking more proactive steps to encourage filmmakers to create with the Oscars in mind,” she said, urging local creatives to study previously nominated IFF films to better understand the expectations of the category.

The International Feature Film award is presented annually by the Academy to a feature-length motion picture produced outside the United States, with at least 50 percent of its dialogue in a non-English language.

Source: Punch