The Nigerian Official Selection Committee announced that it will not submit any films for the International Feature Film category at the 2026 Academy Awards. After a weekend meeting, the committee voted by majority to make “No Submission,” effectively ending the selection process.
Chairperson Stephanie Linus explained that the committee opened a call for entries in August and received six films. Upon review, the committee determined that none met the standards required for competitive potential in global awards. While acknowledging significant improvement and growing awareness of International Feature Film criteria among Nigerian filmmakers, Linus noted a deficit in creative and technical intentionality that must be addressed. This shortfall was a key factor in the decision not to submit a film for the 2026 Oscars, and the decision has been formally communicated to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
The move underscores the Nigerian film industry’s ongoing efforts to produce high‑quality works capable of competing on the world stage. By prioritizing quality over quantity, the committee aims to promote the industry’s growth and development. The International Feature Film category is highly competitive, with entries from around the globe vying for recognition. The committee’s stance reflects the industry’s commitment to excellence and suggests that, as Nigerian cinema continues to evolve, more competitive films are likely to emerge in the future.
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