Nigeria has selected the Hausa epic film “Mai Martaba” as its contender for the International Feature Film (IFF) category at the 97th Academy Awards.
Produced and directed by Prince Daniel, the film explores power, love, greed and betrayal in an ancient African kingdom. It presents a transformative story that challenges convention and celebrates female leadership.
The Nigerian Official Section Committee (NOSC), in a statement on Tuesday, said it selected the film for its relevant theme of diverse voices in decision-making and inclusive leadership and its visual and technical appeal.
NOSC voting members include award-winning actress and NOSC President Stephanie Linus; President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Victor Okhai; veteran actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde; the former president of the DGN, Andy Amenechi; theater practitioner Yibo Koko; writer and director Izu Ojukwu; and prolific film producer Emem Isong.
Other members are Ali Nuhu, CEO of Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC); Kene Okwuosa, co-founder and CEO of Filmhouse Cinemas group; director Dimeji Ajibola; writer and director Jude Idada; director John Njamah; actress and polyglot Meg Otanwa; producer and director Blessing Effiom Egbe; actress Ijeoma Grace Agu; and the journalist and film critic Victor Akande.
“Mai Martaba” received the most votes from the 15-member committee. The IFF Executive Committee will determine the next stage of the film.
Filmed in Daura, Katsina State, Nigeria, “Mai Martaba” tells the story of an ancient kingdom that once experienced a commercial boom through the trans-Saharan trade exchange. However, this boom was short-lived due to a fierce internal power struggle between the powerful Agadashawa ruling clan.
Article page with financial support promotion
ALSO READ: MOVIE REVIEW: Unplanned Love: Family story elevated by brilliant cast and credible acting
The film, which was released theatrically in Nigeria, was also shortlisted for the Septimius Awards in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
The 97th Academy Awards will take place on March 2, 2025 at the Dolby Theater at Ovation Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, United States, and will be broadcast live to more than 200 territories worldwide.