The Nigerian Official Selection Committee has chosen the epic Hausa film “Mai Martaba” to represent Nigeria in the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards, commonly known as the Oscars.
In its announcement, the committee highlighted that the film explores themes such as love, greed, and betrayal set against the backdrop of an ancient African kingdom that thrived through the Trans-Saharan trade before succumbing to a brutal internal power struggle involving the Agadashawa ruling clan.
Filmed on location in Daura, Katsina State, Nigeria, “Mai Martaba” has been praised for its relevant themes of diverse voices in leadership and inclusive decision-making, as well as its impressive visual and technical qualities.
The film emerged as the top choice during the voting process conducted by the 15-member committee, receiving the highest number of votes. The next steps for the film will be decided by the IFF Executive Committee.
The 97th Academy Awards will be held on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Ovation Hollywood, Los Angeles, and will be broadcast live to over 200 territories worldwide.
