The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has invited 397 members of the global film community to join the organization.
Among those who will henceforth be able to vote for Oscar nominees and winners, should they accept the invite, are Nigerian filmmakers Funke Akindele and Blessing Egbe.
AMPAS also invited Nigerian film and TV actor, Daniel K. Daniel, alongside other artistes and executives.
In a lengthy statement listing the invitees, AMPAS said the selected persons included actors, casting directors, cinematographers, costume designers, directors, film editors, make artistes, hair stylists, and music executives.
It also included product designers, sound engineers, writers, and visual effects professionals.
According to the organisation, the selection is based on professional qualifications, with a commitment to representation, inclusion, and equity.
AMPAS said this year’s class of invitees comprised of 71 Oscar nominees, including 15 winners all of whom will be allowed voting privileges at the upcoming Oscars if they accept the invites.
Last year, AMPAS admitted Ramsey Nouah, Mo Abudu and US-based director Andrew Dosummu into the class of 2021.
In 2018, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Wunmi Mosaku, Femi Odugbemi, and Ngozi Onwurah were extended an invite.
