The two stars, who both have Nigerian roots, are to be handed a Global Promise Award by bosses of The GEANCO Foundation, a non-profit organisation which helps provide healthcare and education to women and children in the West African country.

12 Years A Slave star Ejiofor and Selma actor Oyelowo will both pick up the prize for their work promoting educational opportunities for youngsters in Nigeria.

GEANCO's co-founder Afam Onyema says, "We are thrilled to honour two men who have given back in such a profound way to our shared homeland of Nigeria and who are such exemplary ambassadors of The GEANCO Foundation."

The prizes will be handed out at the organisation's annual Impact Africa Hollywood event in Los Angeles on 21 September (15).