Why ‘Mai Martaba’ will compete for IFF at 97th Oscars — NOSC
By Tosin Brown
The Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) has explained why the Nigerian historical film Mai Martaba was chosen to represent Nigeria at the 97th Oscars under the International Feature Film (IFF) category.
In a recent statement, the NOSC highlighted that the film was selected for its relevant theme of diverse voices in decision-making and inclusive leadership, as well as its visual and technical appeal.
It was gathered that Mai Martaba received the highest votes from the 15-member committee led by award-winning actress and NOSC Chairperson Stephanie Linus. The IFF Executive Committee will determine if the film advances to the final stage in the IFF category.
The NOSC voting members include President of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN) Dr. Victor Okhai, veteran actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, former DGN President Andy Amenechi, theatre practitioner Yibo Koko, writer/director Izu Ojukwu, and prolific film producer Emem Isong.
Additional members are Ali Nuhu, Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC); Kene Okwuosa, Co-Founder and Group CEO of Filmhouse Cinemas; director Dimeji Ajibola; writer/director Jude Idada; director John Njamah; actress and polyglot Meg Otanwa; producer/director Blessing Effiom Egbe; actress Ijeoma Grace Agu; and journalist/film critic Victor Akande.
Shot on location in Daura, Katsina State, Nigeria, Mai Martaba tells the story of an ancient kingdom that once thrived through the Trans-Saharan trade but saw its prosperity disrupted by a fierce internal power struggle within the powerful Agadashawa ruling clan.
The film, which had a theatrical release in Nigeria, was also selected for the Septimius Awards in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Produced and directed by Prince Daniel, the film explores themes of power, love, greed, and betrayal in an ancient African kingdom, presenting a transformative tale that challenges conventions and celebrates female leadership.
