Nigeria will not be represented in the International Feature Film category of the 2026 Academy Awards.

The Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) announced on Monday that it has voted for a “No Submission” outcome, despite receiving six entries from filmmakers across the country.

NOSC chairperson, Stephanie Linus, explained that while Nigerian cinema continues to grow, the submitted films fell short of the standards required to make a strong impact on the global stage.

“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 stated.

The decision has already been officially communicated to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

This is not the first time Nigeria has faced challenges in presenting a competitive film at the Oscars, and the latest outcome is likely to spark further debate on the country’s readiness to compete at the highest level of international cinema.