Chineze Anyaene-Abonyi, Founder and Chairperson of the Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) for the Oscars’ Best International Feature Film (IFF) category, has announced stepping down from her role .
Chineze’s decision to step down follows her successful securing of the Oscars’ re-approval of the NOSC.
This aligns with preparations for the 96th edition of the Academy Awards set for the upcoming year.
Transition of leadership within the NOSC will be disclosed shortly.
Under Chineze’s two-term leadership:
The NOSC has undergone remarkable transformation. It became an example for Nigerian filmmakers aspiring to compete in the IFF category at the Oscars.
Recalling her journey, Chineze remembers a pivotal moment in 2012 when, as a budding filmmaker, she sought to submit her own film for Oscar consideration. This revealed Nigeria’s lack of a committee for such submissions.
“This realization fueled my determination to establish and personally fund a committee for Nigerian films to compete at this prestigious international cinema level,” Chineze explains.
Chineze gracefully entrusts her responsibilities to a new leadership team. This marked the end of an era marked by unwavering commitment to excellence, professionalism, and notable achievements.
Chineze affirms, “In recent years, NOSC’s mission has shifted towards fostering industry-wide collaboration for the greater advancement of the Nigerian Film Industry.”
As Chineze embarks on this step, she expresses confidence in the upcoming team’s ability to uphold the legacy and prioritize quality in Nigerian cinema.
“The Nigerian film industry possesses immense potential and talent,” Chineze asserts.
Chineze expresses appreciation for contributions to this journey and acknowledges the support from individuals and organizations within the Nigerian film landscape.
In 2012, Chineze established the NOSC, gaining approval from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) as the official entity responsible for Nigerian IFF entries.
Under her leadership, the committee received re-approval in 2019. Chineze’s persistence led to Pidgin English recognition as a suitable non-English language for the IFF category in 2020.
In 2021, “The Milkmaid” secured Academy approval for IFF competition at the 93rd Academy Awards, a significant milestone.
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