President Bola Tinubu has mourned veteran Nollywood actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who died at the age of 84.
Jacobs’ death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. The family described him as “The Lion of Lufodo” and asked the public to respect its privacy as it mourns.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described Jacobs as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished actors and a towering figure whose career spanned theatre, television, and film.
The President said Jacobs contributed to the growth and professionalization of Nigeria’s entertainment industry and inspired generations of actors and filmmakers through his talent and dedication.
“He was a giant of the Nigerian creative industry. His passing is a great loss to Nigeria, the African film industry, and the global community of lovers of the performing arts,” Tinubu said.
Jacobs trained at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and built a career in British television and international film before becoming a major figure in Nollywood.
He received several industry honors, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in 2007, and was conferred with the national honor of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011.
Tinubu extended his condolences to Jacobs’ wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, his children, relatives, colleagues, and the wider creative community.
