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Veteran Nigerian actor and respected film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, who shared the news in an emotional Instagram post on behalf of the family.
In the statement, the family described Jacobs as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, while reflecting on a life they said was well lived.
They also referred to him as “The Lion of Lufodo,” a name closely associated with his long-standing contribution to Nigeria’s performing arts industry.
The family further appealed to bloggers, social media personalities and members of the public to respect their privacy as they come to terms with the loss.
Jacobs was widely regarded as one of the defining figures of Nigeria’s acting industry. His career stretched across theatre, television and cinema, earning him recognition both within Nigeria and internationally.
Before establishing himself as a major name in Nollywood, Jacobs received formal drama training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London.
His early professional years included appearances in British television productions and international projects, experiences that helped shape the versatility and authority that later became hallmarks of his performances.
After returning to Nigeria, he became increasingly involved in the country’s growing film and television scene. Over the years, Jacobs appeared in a large number of Nigerian productions, playing roles that ranged from traditional rulers and political figures to family patriarchs, businessmen and other commanding characters.
His distinctive voice, measured delivery and powerful screen presence made him particularly recognisable to generations of Nigerian movie audiences.
His work also helped establish him as one of the veteran performers whose careers connected Nigeria’s earlier theatre and television traditions with the modern Nollywood era.
Beyond acting, Jacobs played an important role in the development of the entertainment industry. Together with his wife, celebrated actress Joke Silva, he was associated with the Lufodo Group, through which the couple contributed to theatre, film and the wider performing arts landscape.
His achievements were also acknowledged through several industry honours. Among them were the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Africa International Film Festival.
Jacobs’ death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Nigerian entertainment. His influence extended beyond the numerous films and television productions in which he appeared, with his career spanning decades of significant change in the country’s creative industry.
As tributes emerge following the announcement, attention is expected to remain focused on the legacy of an actor whose work left a lasting imprint on Nigerian theatre, television and film.
He is survived by his wife, Joke Silva, children and grandchildren.
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