Nigeria’s entertainment industry is mourning the death of veteran actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who passed away at the age of 84.
The actor’s death was announced on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a statement shared on Instagram. The announcement brought an end to the life of a distinguished performer whose career spanned theatre, television and film, earning him recognition in Nigeria and beyond.
In the family’s statement, Olusoji Jacobs described his father as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, while paying tribute to him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”
“It is with gratitude to God for a life well lived and fought, that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father, grandfather and uncle. The Lion of Lufodo,” he wrote.
The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect its privacy as relatives mourn the loss of the celebrated actor.
No cause of death was disclosed in the family’s announcement.
A Distinguished Career Across Theatre, Television and Film
Born on July 11, 1942, Olu Jacobs established himself as one of Nigeria’s most respected acting figures through a career that extended across several decades.
He received formal training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London and began his professional journey in British theatre and television. His early experience in the United Kingdom provided the foundation for a career that would later encompass international productions and Nigerian cinema.
After returning to Nigeria, Jacobs became a prominent figure in the country’s growing film industry. His distinctive voice, commanding performances and ability to portray a wide range of characters made him a familiar presence to generations of audiences.
His contribution to Nigerian cinema was recognised through several major honours. Among them were the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2013 and the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
In 2011, he was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in recognition of his contribution to Nigeria.
Contributions Beyond Acting
Olu Jacobs’ influence extended beyond his performances on screen. He was also involved in film production and the advancement of professional training within Nigeria’s creative sector.
Together with his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, he was associated with the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts. Their work contributed to the development of acting and other performing arts in Nigeria.
The couple remained among the country’s most recognised entertainment partnerships, combining their individual artistic careers with a shared involvement in the creative industry.
Jacobs’ professional journey also connected different generations of African audiences with the wider international film community. His experience in British productions, international cinema and Nigerian filmmaking reflected the increasingly broad reach of African talent.
Family Requests Privacy as Tributes Emerge
The announcement of his death has prompted renewed attention to the career and contributions of an actor who occupied an important place in Nigeria’s entertainment history.
For colleagues, admirers and audiences who followed his work, Jacobs leaves behind a substantial body of performances and a record of participation in the development of Nigeria’s film and performing arts industries.
As the family comes to terms with its loss, its request for privacy remains central to the announcement of the actor’s passing. Further details concerning funeral arrangements and other commemorative activities are expected to be communicated by the family.
