Prominent Nigerian actors and movie producers, including Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD), Kunle Afolayan, Shola Dada, CJ Obasi, and Jadesola Osiberu, expressed their joy upon receiving invitations to join the Oscars Academy. They were among the 398 distinguished artists and executives from various fields who were invited to become members of the organization in 2023.
Reacting to his invitation, RMD expressed his surprise and excitement, admitting that he was caught off guard and didn’t know how to react until someone on his team sent him the link. He described the invitation as the best birthday present, as his birth month of July came with not only perfection but also plenty of gifts. While he is yet to discover who sponsored his invitation, he expressed his gratitude and promised to say thank you once he finds out.
The Academy extended invitations to these Nigerian creatives based on their professional qualifications and their contributions to the arts and sciences of motion pictures. The organization’s focus on representation, inclusion, and equity played a significant role in the selection process.
Bill Kramer, the CEO of the Academy, and Janet Yang, the Academy President, expressed their pride in welcoming these talented artists and professionals into the membership. They recognized the extraordinary global talent and the significant impact these individuals have made on the film industry, both in Nigeria and worldwide.
The invitations to join the Oscars Academy highlight the growing recognition and influence of the Nigerian film industry, also known as Nollywood, on the global stage. It is a testament to the talent, creativity, and dedication of Nigerian filmmakers and actors who continue to make significant contributions to the world of cinema.
