Nigeria’s official selection for the 97th Academy Awards is here, and it’s making waves! The Nigerian Official Selection Committee has chosen Mai Martaba, a powerful Hausa-language epic, to represent the country in the Oscars’ Best International Feature Film category. This announcement came on Tuesday, and it highlights Mai Martaba as a contender in one of the world’s most prestigious film competitions.

Directed by the acclaimed Prince Daniel (Aboki), Mai Martaba takes viewers to an ancient African kingdom where love, greed, and betrayal shape the story. With a cast of around 500, the film was shot in Daura, Katsina State, bringing to life the rich cultural heritage of Northern Nigeria. The film stars notable Kannywood actor Adam A. Zango, alongside rising talents like Shugaba, Ghali Abdullah DZ, Muktar Aminu Haruna, and Auwalu Isma’il Marshal. Also gracing the screen are Fatima Mohammed as Princess Sangaya, Tasi’u Ali as MaiKabaas Turaki, and Yahaya Sabo Abubakar as Wakili, each adding depth to this historical tale.

The Nigerian committee, which includes stars like Stephanie Linus, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, and Ali Nuhu, selected Mai Martaba not only for its captivating story but also for its message of inclusive leadership. The committee’s 15 voting members cast their ballots, and Mai Martaba received the highest number of votes, marking it as a strong candidate to represent Nigeria.

The 97th Oscars will take place on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California.