Nigeria's entertainment industry is mourning the passing of one of its most respected veterans, Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who has died at the age of 84.
The news was announced by his family on September 16, 2026, in a statement shared by his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva. The family described him as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, and referred to him as "The Lion of Lufodo".
A Career That Spanned Generations
Olu Jacobs leaves behind a remarkable acting career that stretched across more than five decades. Born in Kano, Nigeria, he developed an early interest in drama before travelling to Britain, where he studied at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London. Before becoming a household name in Nigeria, Jacobs appeared in several British television productions and international films, including The Goodies, Till Death Us Do Part, The Professionals, The Dogs of War and Pirates.
He later became one of the pioneering figures of Nigeria's developing film industry. With his commanding voice, distinctive screen presence and ability to portray authoritative characters, he became particularly associated with roles as fathers, chiefs, elders, politicians and other influential figures. Throughout his career, Jacobs appeared in more than 100 Nigerian films, including Oloibiri and The Royal Hibiscus Hotel.
An award-winning icon
Jacobs' contribution to African cinema earned him numerous honours. He won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007 and received the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards in 2013. In 2011, he was honoured by the Nigerian government as a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). He also received lifetime-achievement recognition from the Africa Movie Academy Awards and the Africa International Film Festival.
Beyond Acting, Jacobs and Joke Silva built a life and professional partnership within Nigeria's creative industry. They were involved in the Lufodo Group, including the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, which has contributed to training people in various aspects of filmmaking and theatre.
A private farewell
The announcement comes after years in which the actor had largely stayed away from the spotlight. His family had previously pushed back against false reports of his death, including rumours that circulated in 2021 and 2024.
In their latest statement, the family asked bloggers and social-media influencers to respect their privacy during this difficult period.
Olu Jacobs' death marks the end of the life of an actor whose work reached generations of Nigerians and audiences beyond the country. From British television and international cinema to the growth of Nollywood, his career covered several eras of African entertainment.
As tributes begin to pour in, the veteran actor leaves behind a body of work that will continue to be remembered by the Nigerian film industry and the millions who watched him on screen.
**Olu Jacobs - 1942-2026**
