Susan Abayomi
Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
The actor’s death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, in a statement shared on social media on behalf of the family.
The family described Jacobs as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, referring to him as “The Lion of Lufodo.” It also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family’s privacy as they mourn his passing.
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs built a career spanning more than five decades across theatre, television and film in Nigeria and abroad.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before beginning his professional acting career in Britain, where he appeared in television productions and international films. He later returned to Nigeria and became one of the prominent figures in the country’s evolving film and theatre industry.
Jacobs became widely recognised for his commanding performances and distinctive screen presence, appearing in numerous Nigerian productions and earning recognition as one of the veteran actors who helped shape the country’s entertainment industry.
His contributions to the arts earned him several honours, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007 and the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
Beyond acting, Jacobs was involved in the development of Nigeria’s performing arts industry. He and his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, co-founded the Lufodo Group, which has interests in film production and performing arts training.
Jacobs was married to Joke Silva, with whom he had children and grandchildren.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mourned the actor, describing him as a distinguished figure whose career contributed significantly to Nigerian theatre, television and film. The President also acknowledged Jacobs’ influence on generations of actors and filmmakers.
The passing of Olu Jacobs marks the end of a remarkable career that connected British theatre and television with Nigeria’s film industry and spanned generations of audiences and performers.
He is survived by his wife, Joke Silva, their children and grandchildren.
