Last Updated on 2 hours ago by Vijay Kumar
Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Olu Jacobs, born Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
Jacobs died on September 16, 2026, according to a family announcement shared by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Instagram. The family described him as “The Lion of Lufodo” and requested privacy as they mourn his death.
Atiku Abubakar wrote on Facebook, “I am profoundly saddened by the passing of Olu Jacobs at the age of 84. Nigeria has lost far more than a great actor; we have lost an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit.
For generations of Nigerians, Olu Jacobs was a familiar and commanding presence in our homes. That unmistakable voice, the dignity he brought to every role and the sheer force of his talent made him one of those rare artists who did not merely act before an audience, but became part of our collective memory.”
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs became one of the most respected figures in Nigerian theatre, television and film. The family announcement did not disclose a cause of death.
Olu Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in England and began his professional acting career in Britain. During his early career, he worked with repertoire theatres and appeared in British television productions and international films.
After returning to Nigeria, Jacobs became a prominent figure in the country’s growing film industry and went on to establish himself as one of Nollywood’s veteran actors.
Throughout his long career, he received several major honours. In 2007, he won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. He later received the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
In 2011, Jacobs was also conferred with the Nigerian national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) for his contribution to the country.
Beyond acting, Jacobs was associated with the Lufodo Group, which he founded with his wife, fellow veteran actress Joke Silva.
Olu Jacobs is survived by his wife, Joke Silva, and their children and grandchildren. His son, Olusoji Jacobs, was the family member who publicly announced his death.
My name is Vijay Kumar. I work as content writer and founder of this website. I am studying BSC IT. I has been writing content since 2022. I also learn about journalism.
