President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs.
Jacobs died at the age of 84 on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. His death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, who asked the public to respect the family’s privacy during the mourning period.
In a condolence message, Tinubu described the late actor as a “creative industry giant,” acknowledging his contributions to Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
The President said Jacobs’ passing was a loss to the Nigerian creative sector and the country at large.
Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s prominent veteran actors, with a career spanning theatre, television and film.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before appearing in several British television productions and international films.
He later returned to Nigeria and became a major figure in Nollywood, featuring in more than 100 films during his decades-long career.
Jacobs received several honours for his contributions to the film industry, 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 in 2011.
He was married to veteran actress Joke Silva, with whom he co-founded the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.
