Filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr., actor Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù and costume designer PC Williams have been invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, marking another milestone for Nigerian talent on the global film stage and expanding the country’s influence in Oscar voting.
By A1NEWS International
LOS ANGELES/ABUJA – June 26, 2026
The global influence of Nigerian storytelling has received another significant boost as three British-Nigerian creatives have earned invitations to join the prestigious Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), the body responsible for the annual Academy Awards (Oscars).
Filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr., acclaimed actor Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù, and celebrated costume designer PC Williams are among the 529 artists and film executives selected for the Academy’s 2026 membership class, placing them among the international professionals who will help shape the future of the world’s most prestigious film awards.
Their invitations not only recognize individual excellence but also underscore the growing prominence of Nigerian and African cinema on the global entertainment landscape.
Exclusive Honour Reserved for Global Film Leaders
Membership of the Academy is one of the highest distinctions in the international film industry.
Admission is strictly by invitation and reserved for professionals who have demonstrated exceptional achievement and made significant contributions to cinema.
Beyond its prestige, Academy membership carries voting rights that determine nominees and winners of future Oscar ceremonies, giving members direct influence over one of the entertainment industry’s most coveted awards.
Announcing the 2026 class, Academy Chief Executive Officer Bill Kramer and Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor praised the invitees for their remarkable contributions to filmmaking.
According to the Academy, the new members were selected because of their outstanding commitment to advancing the global motion picture industry through excellence, creativity and innovation.
‘My Father’s Shadow’ Opens New Chapter for Nigerian Cinema
The invitations come on the heels of the international breakthrough achieved by My Father’s Shadow, the feature directorial debut of Akinola Davies Jr., with Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù delivering the film’s lead performance.
The UK-Nigeria co-production achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Nigerian film officially selected for the Cannes Film Festival’s main programme, drawing widespread international acclaim.
Its remarkable festival journey culminated in a Caméra d’Or Special Mention, before earning the BAFTA Award for Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer for Akinola Davies Jr. and his brother, Wale Davies.
Industry observers describe the film’s achievements as another landmark moment in Nigeria’s expanding global cinematic reputation, demonstrating that locally rooted stories can compete successfully on the world’s biggest stages.
Davies Reflects on Journey from Short Films to the Academy
Reacting to the invitation, Akinola Davies Jr. described the recognition as one of the defining moments of his filmmaking career.
Writing on Instagram, the filmmaker reflected on his creative journey from producing independent short films to becoming part of the Academy.
“There are moments in this work that stop you still. Being invited into the Academy is one of them. Knowing it came through the short films makes it hit different,” he wrote.
He also offered words of encouragement to emerging filmmakers navigating the challenges of the creative industry.
“Back yourself, create with your mates… the love you put into creation will.”
His remarks resonated widely among young African filmmakers who increasingly view independent filmmaking as a pathway to international recognition.
Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù: Success Built by a Community
Lead actor Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù also expressed gratitude for the invitation, describing Academy membership as both an honour and a privilege.
Although many performers aspire to win an Oscar, Dìrísù said he has learned not to define professional success solely through awards.
“Being invited to be a member of the Academy is an honour and a privilege I can’t fully describe. My career took a village, and I’ll continue to take this village with me wherever the journey leads,” he stated.
His comments highlighted the collaborative nature of filmmaking and acknowledged the collective effort behind artistic achievement.
Costume Designer PC Williams Celebrates Historic Recognition
British-Nigerian costume designer PC Williams, whose work earned recognition in the Academy’s Costume Designers Branch, also celebrated the invitation.
Sharing her excitement on social media, she wrote:
“OMG what a ride. Academy Class of 2026. It takes a village.”
Her recognition further demonstrates the increasing visibility of African professionals working behind the scenes in major international film productions.
Industry analysts note that honours for technical professionals such as costume designers help broaden global appreciation of African creative expertise beyond acting and directing.
Growing Nigerian Presence in Oscar Academy
The latest invitations continue Nigeria’s growing representation within the Academy.
The trio joins an expanding community of Nigerian filmmakers and entertainers who already hold Academy membership, including:
- Mo Abudu
- Ramsey Nouah
- Genevieve Nnaji
- Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde
- Kunle Afolayan
- Jade Osiberu
- Richard Mofe-Damijo
- Bunmi Ademilola Fashina
- Ré Olunuga
The increasing number of Nigerian members reflects the international recognition of Nollywood’s rapid growth and the industry’s expanding influence on global cinema.
Analysts believe stronger African representation within the Academy could encourage greater visibility for African stories, filmmakers and productions during future Oscar seasons.
Nigeria’s Creative Industry Gains Global Momentum
The invitations come at a time when Nigerian films continue attracting attention at major international festivals, streaming platforms and award ceremonies.
With improved production standards, increased international collaborations and stronger investment in storytelling, Nollywood has steadily transformed into one of the world’s fastest-growing film industries.
Experts say the Academy’s recognition signals growing confidence in African cinema and reinforces Nigeria’s position as a major contributor to global filmmaking.
The inclusion of Akinola Davies Jr., Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù and PC Williams in the Academy’s 2026 membership class represents more than individual achievement—it reflects the continuing rise of Nigerian creativity on the global stage.
As more Nigerian filmmakers, actors and technical professionals gain international recognition, industry stakeholders believe the country’s influence within world cinema will continue to expand, creating new opportunities for African stories to reach global audiences and compete at the highest levels of filmmaking.
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