The Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) has officially launched the process to select the country’s entry for the Best International Feature Film (IFF) category at the 98th Academy Awards scheduled to take place in 2026.
This announcement signals the beginning of what is expected to be an intense and closely followed race among Nigerian filmmakers hoping to represent the country on one of the most prestigious stages in global cinema. The NOSC in its official statement on Thursday extended an open invitation to producers and directors to submit their works for consideration. The committee also reiterated its dedication to a transparent and merit based process in line with international standards.
“The NOSC is proud to initiate the 2025 selection process and we look forward to discovering the best of Nigerian cinema” said the committee’s Chairperson. “This is another opportunity to showcase our unique narratives on the global stage. Our storytelling continues to evolve and we believe this year will highlight how far our industry has come.”
To be eligible for submission a film must meet specific criteria as outlined by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS). The film must be predominantly in a non-English language and must have been theatrically released in Nigeria between October 1 2024 and September 30 2025. In addition the film must have a minimum seven-day commercial screening in a Nigerian cinema to qualify for entry. Submissions must also include proof of ownership and distribution rights as well as technical details concerning the film’s format and exhibition.
The NOSC which is composed of film industry professionals including directors producers scholars and critics is responsible for screening all entries and selecting the most suitable film to represent Nigeria at the Oscars. Over the years the committee has faced both praise and criticism in its quest to find the right balance between artistic merit and international appeal. Several past selections have generated significant discussion within Nollywood and among cinema enthusiasts highlighting the increasing importance of the process to the nation’s creative identity.
Despite its burgeoning industry and increased international visibility Nigeria has yet to secure a nomination in the International Feature Film category. In 2020 the country’s selection was disqualified due to the predominance of English dialogue sparking widespread debate about the criteria and challenges for Nigerian entries. However the incident prompted important conversations and reforms within the local film community and the NOSC about language diversity authenticity and global competitiveness.
Since then Nigeria has made notable progress in both storytelling and production standards. With more Nigerian films making appearances at global festivals such as the Toronto International Film Festival Berlin International Film Festival and the Cannes Film Market the country is gradually establishing itself as a force in world cinema. Additionally streaming platforms such as Netflix Prime Video and Showmax have amplified Nigerian voices allowing local films to reach broader international audiences and increasing their viability for Academy consideration.
According to the NOSC the deadline for filmmakers to submit their entries is September 15 2025. Once all submissions have been received and reviewed the selected film will be announced in late September and subsequently submitted to the Academy for official consideration.
Film analysts and industry insiders have already begun speculating on which titles may be submitted with several critically acclaimed works from the past year in the spotlight. With themes ranging from political turmoil and migration to folklore and family dynamics Nigerian filmmakers continue to blend traditional storytelling with modern cinematic techniques.
This year’s selection process is expected to draw heightened attention as Nigeria remains eager to secure its first ever Oscar nomination in this category. With a rich tapestry of stories cultural diversity and an industry hungry for recognition the stage is set for one of the most promising Oscar bids in the country’s history.
source: thenationonlineng.net
