Nigeria’s political and entertainment communities have been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, at the age of 84.
Jacobs died on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, with his family announcing his passing in a statement shared by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Instagram.
The family described the celebrated actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and said his death marked the end of a life dedicated to his family, the arts and the entertainment industry. 
“Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs (MFR), 11/07/1942 – 16/09/2026,” the family stated, while appealing to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn.
Tinubu: ‘His Passing Is a Great Loss’
President Bola Tinubu led the tributes, describing Jacobs as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished actors and a major figure in the development of the country’s creative industry.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said Jacobs’ career across theatre, television and film had inspired generations of actors and filmmakers.
“He was a giant of the Nigerian creative industry. His passing is a great loss to Nigeria, the African film industry and the global community of lovers of the performing arts,” the President said.
Tinubu also praised Jacobs for bringing depth, dignity and authenticity to his performances, saying his body of work would continue to inspire future generations.
The President extended his condolences to Jacobs’ wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, their children, grandchildren, relatives, colleagues and the wider Nigerian creative community.
Atiku: ‘An Institution Has Passed’
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also mourned Jacobs, describing him as an institution and a cultural icon whose career helped shape Nigeria’s entertainment landscape.
In a tribute shared on X, Atiku said Jacobs had become a familiar presence in the homes of generations of Nigerians and praised his distinctive voice, dignity and acting talent.
He also highlighted Jacobs’ international career before the emergence of Nollywood as a global phenomenon, noting his contribution to the foundations of Nigeria’s modern film industry.
Atiku extended his condolences to Silva, the Jacobs family and the wider Nigerian and African creative communities.
A Career That Spanned More Than Five Decades
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs built a career that stretched across more than five decades and encompassed theatre, British television, international cinema and Nollywood.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before beginning his professional acting career in Britain. He appeared in several British television productions and international films before returning to Nigeria, where he became one of the country’s most recognisable screen and stage actors.
In Nigeria, Jacobs became particularly associated with roles portraying kings, chiefs, traditional rulers, patriarchs and other authoritative characters.
His commanding presence and distinctive voice became trademarks of his performances, helping establish him as one of the defining figures of Nigerian cinema.
Awards and National Recognition
Jacobs received several major honours during his career.
He won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007 and was honoured by the Federal Government with the national award of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
He also received the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and a lifetime achievement award at the 2016 MAA Awards.
Jacobs was also a film executive and, alongside Joke Silva, co-founded the Lufodo Group, further extending the couple’s contribution beyond acting into the development of Nigeria’s performing arts sector.
Olu Jacobs and Joke Silva
Jacobs and Joke Silva became one of Nigeria’s most prominent entertainment couples.
