Nollywood Icon, Richard Mofe-Damijo, filmmakers, Kunle Afolayan, Jade Osiberu, CJ Obasi, and screenwriter Shola Dada have been named members of the Oscar Academy by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, on Thursday, 29th June, 2023.
In a statement released by, Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang, they said the invitations were extended to 398 artists and executives who have distinguished themselves by their contributions to motion pictures.
“Membership selection is based on professional qualifications, with an ongoing commitment to representation, inclusion, and equity remains a priority. Of the 2023 class, 40% identify as women, 34% belong to underrepresented ethnic/racial communities, and 52% are from 50 countries and territories outside the United States. There are 76 Oscar® nominees, including 22 winners, among the invitees”.
the academy noted.
With this announcement, the inductees will also have automatic voting rights to nominate people and projects into categories for the academy awards
RMD was inducted in the actors’ category, while Kunle and shola dada were inducted in the writer’s category.
Jade and Obasi were inducted in the producers and directors categories respectively.
The five Nigerians join the league of Nigerian, Newton Aduaka, Tunde Kelani, Funke Akindele, Daniel K. Daniel, Blessing Egbe, Ramsey Nouah, Mo Abudu, Andrew Dosunmu, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Femi Odugbemi, Akin Omotoso and Genevieve Nnaji as Oscars voting members.
Story: Ihuoma Ukeje