Nigeria picks Dear Ajayi for the Oscars race

Nigeria has selected Dear Ajayi as its official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2027 Academy Awards, popularly known as the Oscars. The decision gives the Nollywood-linked production an opportunity to compete for one of the world's most recognised film awards.

The selection was announced by the Nigerian Official Selection Committee after reviewing eligible films submitted for consideration. However, being selected to represent Nigeria does not automatically mean the film has secured an Oscar nomination.

###What is Dear Ajayi about?

Directed, written and produced by Damilola Orimogunje, Dear Ajayi is a period drama set in southwestern Nigeria in the 1990s.

The film follows two estranged sisters, Ade and Titi, whose relationship is tested when their ailing mother comes to live with them. Their story explores family responsibilities, faith, ambition and unresolved disagreements.

The film's focus on family relationships and Nigerian experiences gives international audiences an opportunity to engage with stories rooted in the country's culture and society.

###Why the Oscar selection matters to Nollywood

The Oscars are among the most recognised awards in the international film industry. Nigeria's selection of Dear Ajayi puts the film forward for consideration alongside submissions from other countries.

For Nollywood, this opportunity can help attract international attention to Nigerian filmmakers, actors and storytelling. Greater visibility may also create opportunities for distribution, partnerships and interest from audiences outside Africa.

However, international recognition is not guaranteed. The film must still meet the Academy's requirements and progress through its selection process.

The choice also highlights the importance of films that present Nigerian stories to international audiences while competing at a global level.

###What happens next?

The process is straightforward. Nigeria has chosen its film, but the Academy must decide whether it advances.

• First: The Academy reviews the submission for eligibility and consideration.
• Next: The film competes with other countries' entries for a place on the shortlist.
• Then: Shortlisted films undergo further voting before the final nominees are announced.
• Finally: The nominated films compete for the award at the ceremony.

According to the Academy's published schedule, the international feature shortlist is due on December 15, 2026, while the final nominations are scheduled for January 21, 2027. The 99th Oscars ceremony is scheduled for March 14, 2027.

For now, Dear Ajayi has cleared Nigeria's national selection stage. Its next challenge is to advance through the international competition.

###What this means for Nigerian films

The selection is an important opportunity for Dear Ajayi and its filmmakers. It also gives Nollywood another chance to showcase Nigerian storytelling on a major international platform.

Whether the film reaches the final nominations remains to be seen. For Nigerian film fans, the next milestone will be the Academy's shortlist announcement in December.