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Veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
The respected actor’s death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, bringing an end to the life and career of one of Nigeria’s most celebrated actors.
Olusoji, in an Instagram post announcing the death, described his father as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, while referring to him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”
As tributes continue to pour in for the veteran actor, here are 10 things to know about Olu Jacobs.
1. He Was Born In Kano
Olu Jacobs was born on July 11, 1942, in Kano, Nigeria. He grew up to develop an interest in acting before eventually pursuing it as a professional career.
2. His Full Name Was Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs
Although he became popularly known as Olu Jacobs, the actor’s full name was Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs.
Over several decades, the name Olu Jacobs became closely associated with Nigerian theatre, television and film.
3. He Trained At RADA
Jacobs received professional acting training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.
His training at the prestigious institution helped establish the foundation for a career that would span theatre, television and film across different countries.
4. He Built Part Of His Career In The UK
Before returning to Nigeria, Jacobs spent part of his professional career in the United Kingdom, where he featured in a number of television productions.
His experience in the British entertainment industry gave him international exposure before he became one of the leading figures in Nigeria’s film industry.
5. He Featured In International Productions
Jacobs also appeared in international productions, including The Dogs of War, Pirates and Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend.
His involvement in these projects reflected the international dimension of his acting career.
6. He Became A Nollywood Veteran
After establishing himself professionally, Jacobs became one of the most recognised veteran actors in Nigeria.
He appeared in numerous Nollywood films and television productions, taking on a wide range of characters throughout his career.
His work contributed to the development and visibility of Nigeria’s modern film industry.
7. He Was Married To Joke Silva
Olu Jacobs was married to fellow veteran actress Joke Silva.
The couple met through theatre and eventually got married in 1989. Their marriage became one of the well-known partnerships in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
8. They Worked Together In The Industry
Jacobs and Silva were not only life partners but also worked together professionally.
They were associated with the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, contributing to theatre and professional training within the Nigerian entertainment industry.
9. He Received Several Awards
Throughout his career, Jacobs received numerous awards and honours in recognition of his contributions to acting.
Among them were the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role, the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic and the AMVCA Industry Merit Award.
These honours reflected his longstanding contribution to Nigerian film and entertainment.
10. He Died At 84
Olu Jacobs died on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84.
His son, Olusoji, announced his death on Instagram, describing him in deeply personal terms as a beloved family man and referring to him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”
Following the announcement, the family appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn the veteran actor.
Jacobs leaves behind a significant body of work and a legacy spanning theatre, television and film. His career crossed international and Nigerian productions, while his contribution to Nollywood made him a respected figure among generations of actors and audiences.
His death marks the loss of one of the enduring figures of Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
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