Nigerian actress and producer Funke Akindele has been invited to join the 2022 membership of The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences popularly known as the Oscars.

The star, better known by her alias, her major character Jenifa, is amongst 397 artists and executives invited by the organisation for its membership selection.

“The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is extending invitations to join the organization to 397 artists and executives who have distinguished themselves by their contributions to theatrical motion pictures,” read a statement from the prestigious body.

The letter of invitation states that Funke was selected for her roles in popular movies: “Omo Ghetto: The Saga” and “Jenifa”, and is the only Nigerian alongside Daniel K Daniel from “The Fugitive,” and “A Soldier’s Story”, amongst the other selected members from over 53 countries and territories outside the United States.

“Membership selection is based on professional qualifications, with an ongoing commitment to representation, inclusion and equity remaining a priority,” the statement read further. “The 2022 class is 44% women, 37% belong to underrepresented ethnic/racial communities, and 50% are from 53 countries and territories outside the United States.”

The honour comes amid reports marriage crisis and separation between Funke and her husband, Abdul Bello.