Five Nollywood icons have been named among 398 distinguished artists and executives recently invited by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in the US to join the organization in 2023. The Membership selection was based on professional qualifications, with an ongoing commitment to representation, inclusion, and equity.
Observers and film pundits believe that the recent invitation by the body responsible for the Oscars is a move that signals laudable recognition of the Nigerian film industry.
The Five Nollywood creatives, Richard Mofe-Damijo, C.J Obasi, Jadesola Osiberu, Kunle Afolayan, and Shola Dada, will be part of only one branch each of the 19 branches of the Academy.
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Richard Mofe-Damijo joined the Actors branch; C.J. “Fiery” Obasi joined the Directors branch; Jadesola Osiberu joined the Producers; and Kunle Afolayan and Shola Dada joined the Writers.
This landmark achievement by Nigerian creatives underscores the exceptional contributions of these individuals in the film industry, not just in Nigeria but worldwide. It also acknowledges the value and significant contribution of Nollywood to the motion picture industry in the world.
Veteran actor Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, has a career spanning over three decades, with countless accolades. C.J. Obasi, a renowned filmmaker, has continually pushed the boundaries of Nigerian cinema, blending genres to create unique narratives that resonate with audiences across the globe.
Jadesola Osiberu, an accomplished director and producer, has achieved significant success within the Nigerian film industry; her films often explore the nuances of Nigerian life and culture. Afolayan is a multi-talented filmmaker known for his dedication to quality and his ability to weave intricate narratives. His films have received many accolades, and have also been showcased at film festivals worldwide.
Shola Dada is the winner of the AMVCA 2023 Best Writer for Drama/ Comedy award, solidifying her status as one of the best in Nollywood.
Nollywood has remained the leading and most prominent film industry in Africa and among the three leading film industries in the world.
According to NBC News, “If all of this year’s invitees accept membership, it will bring the total number of overall Academy members to 10,817 (up from 10,665 last year), with 9,375 eligible to vote (a decrease from 9,665 due to deaths, retirements and moving to emeritus status) for the 96th Oscars, set to take place on March 10, 2024.”
“The Academy is proud to welcome these artists and professionals into our membership. They represent extraordinary global talent across cinematic disciplines, and have made a vital impact on the arts and sciences of motion pictures and on movie fans worldwide,” said Academy CEO, Bill Kramer and Academy President, Janet Yang.
