Nigeria has chosen the epic Hausa film Mai Martaba as its official entry for the International Feature Film (IFF) category at the 97th Academy Awards.
[ad]
Produced and directed by Prince Daniel, the film delves into themes of power, love, greed, and betrayal within an ancient African kingdom. It offers a transformative narrative that challenges traditional norms and highlights the importance of female leadership.
The Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) selected Mai Martaba for its relevant message on inclusive leadership and its strong visual and technical execution.
READ ALSO: Filmmaker Femi Odugbemi appointed into Oscars engagement committee
The 15-member NOSC includes prominent industry figures such as award-winning actress and Chairperson Stephanie Linus, Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN) President Dr. Victor Okhai, veteran actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, and producer Emem Isong. Other members include Ali Nuhu (NFC Managing Director), Yibo Koko, Jude Idada, John Njamah, Blessing Effiom Egbe, Meg Otanwa, and film critic Victor Akande.
With the highest votes from the committee, Mai Martaba has advanced to the next evaluation stage by the IFF Executive Committee.
[ad]
Shot on location in Daura, Katsina State, the film depicts the rise and fall of a prosperous kingdom enriched by the Trans-Saharan trade, which was disrupted by internal conflict among the Agadashawa ruling clan.
Following its theatrical release in Nigeria, Mai Martaba was also selected for the Septimius Awards in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
The 97th Academy Awards will take place on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Ovation Hollywood, Los Angeles, and will be broadcast live to over 200 territories worldwide.
[ad]
