In a groundbreaking move, the United Kingdom has officially selected the Nigerian-British film My Father’s Shadow as its entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards. 

The film, directed by Akinola Davies Jr., was chosen by a special BAFTA selection committee. It becomes the first Nigerian story to be submitted by the UK in this Oscar race.  My Father’s Shadow was shot largely in Lagos and Ibadan, blending Yoruba, Nigerian Pidgin, and English languages in its narrative. 

Bridging Nigerian Storytelling and Global Recognition

Set in 1993, amid Nigeria’s political upheaval following the annulled June 12 election, the film follows two brothers who travel with their estranged father from a rural village into Lagos. Their journey becomes a canvas for exploring familial tensions, identity and the ripple effects of a nation in unrest. 

Starring Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù, with rising actors Godwin Chiemerie Egbo and Chibuike Marvellous Egbo as the two sons, the film captures both emotional intimacy and socio-political stakes.    The screenplay is a collaboration between Wale Davies and Akinola Davies Jr., who previously earned acclaim for their short film Lizard. 

The film premiered at Cannes in the Un Certain Regard section, where it earned a Caméra d’Or Special Mention, marking a significant milestone for Nigerian cinema on the global stage. 

Interestingly, while Nigeria’s national selection committee decided not to submit any film for the international feature category this year, My Father’s Shadow received a second life through the UK’s endorsement. 

The film’s Nigerian theatrical release began September 19, and its UK and U.S. releases are slated for February 6, 2026. 

If My Father’s Shadow makes the Oscar shortlist, it would push forward cross-border recognition of African stories and demonstrate that Nigerian narratives can resonate far beyond domestic audiences. The shortlist for the International Feature category is expected December 16, with final nominees revealed on January 22, 2026.