Nigeria has selected Dear Ajayi to represent the country in the Best International Feature Film category at the 99th Academy Awards.
The Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC), responsible for choosing the country’s Oscar entry, announced the decision after assessing eligible films submitted for consideration.
The film will now advance to the next phase of the Academy Awards selection process, where it will be evaluated alongside entries from other countries.
However, the selection does not automatically secure a nomination, as the film must pass the Academy’s assessment before the final nominees are determined.
NOSC Chairperson Stephanie Linus congratulated the production team on the achievement and expressed optimism about the film’s prospects in the competition.
“We congratulate the filmmakers behind Dear Ajayi on their selection,” Linus said.
Written, directed and produced by Damilola Orimogunje, Dear Ajayi is a period drama set in southwestern Nigeria during the 1990s.
The story centres on two sisters, Ade and Titi Ajayi, whose lives follow different courses before their relationship faces renewed strain when their ailing mother moves in with them.
As they navigate grief, faith, personal ambitions and family expectations, unresolved disagreements resurface, compelling them to reckon with past decisions and their impact on their lives.
The 99th Academy Awards will feature submissions from film industries across the world, with the Academy reviewing entries before determining the shortlist and final nominees for the Best International Feature Film category.
