2025 Oscars: Nigeria Selects ‘Mai Martaba’ As IFF Contender

The Nigerian Official Section Committee (NOSC) has selected the epic Hausa 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 themes in an ancient African kingdom, presenting a transformative tale that challenges conventions and celebrates female leadership.

The Committee selected the film for its relevant theme of diverse voices in decision-making and inclusive leadership and its visual and technical appeal.

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The NOSC voting members include award-winning actress and NOSC Chairperson Stephanie Linus; 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, Ali Nuhu, Kene Okwuosa amongst others.

Mai Martaba received the highest votes from the 15-member committee. The IFF Executive Committee will determine the next stage for the film.

Shot on location in Daura, Katsina State, Nigeria, “Mai Martaba” tells the story of an ancient kingdom that once experienced a trade boom through the Trans-Saharan trade exchange, which was short-lived due to a fierce internal power struggle among the powerful Agadashawa ruling clan.

The film, which had its theatrical release in Nigeria, was also selected for the Septimius Awards in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

The 97th Oscars will take place at the Dolby Theatre in Ovation Hollywood, Los Angeles on March 2, 2025 and will be broadcast live to over 200 territories worldwide.