Nigeria will not be represented in the International Feature Film (IFF) category at the 2026 Academy Awards, following the Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) confirmation.

Despite six films being submitted for consideration, the committee concluded that none of the entries met the requirements and standards set for the highly competitive global category.

In a statement, NOSC Chairperson Stephanie Linus explained that while Nigerian films have made notable progress in recent years, there remains a “deficit in creative and technical intentionality” needed to compete at the Oscars.

“While Nigerian films have no doubt shown significant improvement and growing awareness of IFF standards, there is still a deficit in creative and technical intentionality that will improve their competitive potential for global awards,” Linus said.

She noted that the committee will take proactive measures to prepare future submissions, including encouraging filmmakers to study past Oscar-nominated international features and align their work with global best practices.

The NOSC has formally communicated its decision to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), expressing regret that no Nigerian film was deemed suitable for the 2026 race.

The International Feature Film Award, presented annually by AMPAS, recognizes feature-length films produced outside the United States with at least 50 percent of dialogue in a non-English language.