Some Nollywood actors and directors have been invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the group that oversees the famous Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars.
Richard Mofe-Damijo, Kunle Afolayan, Jade Osiberu, Shola Dada, and CJ Obasi were among the 398 ‘distinguished artists and executives’ invited by the reputable recognition platform, according to a statement posted on the Oscars website during the week.
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Furthermore, it was said that the academy’s selection procedure was based on professional qualifications with a focus on equity, inclusion, and representation.
The body’s Chief Executive Officer, Bill Kramer; and President, Janet Yang, noted that they were proud to welcome the new members.
Yang said, “The Academy is proud to welcome these artists and professionals into our membership. They represent extraordinary global talent across cinematic disciplines, and have made a vital impact on the arts and sciences of motion pictures and on movie fans worldwide.”
The new members were chosen from various categories, including ‘actors’, ‘casting directors’, ‘cinematographers’, ‘costume designers’, ‘directors’, ‘documentary filmmakers’, ‘executives’, ‘film editors’, ‘make-up artists and hairstylists’, and ‘marketing and public relations experts’.
Veteran actor, RMD, was recognised in the artists’ category; Jade Osiberu was in the producers’ category, and Kunle Afolayan and Shola Dada in the writers’ category, while CJ Obasi was named in the directors’ category.
Describing it as his best birthday present, RMD wrote on social media, “I just kept seeing the messages of congratulations but did not know what to make of it.
“My people did some digging and they confirmed it is on their official website. So , it’s official. Congratulations are in order. Best birthday present came early. July, my birth month, comes not only with perfection but plenty gifts.
“PS: I don’t know my sponsors for this yet but when I do, I will say ‘thank you’ again. My heart is glad.”
Expressing delight about the honour, Osiberu wrote on Instagram, “2023 has already been quite the year, but to be invited to join @theacademy is such an honour. 14-year-old Jade who dreamed of being a filmmaker, at a time when that dream seemed so ridiculous, is so excited and proud of the journey so far. I’m even more excited because I know the journey is just really beginning.”
