Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
The celebrated actor died on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, with the announcement coming from his family through his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Instagram.
In the family statement, Jacobs was remembered as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle. The family also described him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”
The statement said the family was grateful to God for his life and asked the public, particularly bloggers and social media influencers, to respect their privacy as they mourn.
Olu Jacobs was born on July 11, 1942. He built an acting career that spanned several decades and took him from the British stage and television to international productions and, later, Nigeria’s growing film industry.
A Career That Crossed Borders
Jacobs received his professional training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.
He began working in British television and theatre before appearing in international film productions. His experience abroad later became part of the foundation of a remarkable career in Nigeria.
After returning home, Jacobs became one of the familiar faces of Nigerian theatre, television and film. His distinctive voice, commanding screen presence and ability to portray complex characters made him one of the industry’s respected veterans.
The Lufodo Group describes his professional career as spanning about five decades, with work across stage, film and radio in Britain, the United States and Nigeria.
Partnership With Joke Silva
Beyond acting, Jacobs also contributed to the development of Nigeria’s performing arts industry.
He and his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, were closely associated with the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.
Through their work, the couple supported the development and training of performers and contributed to Nigeria’s theatre and film sectors.
Jacobs also received major industry recognition during his career, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role and other lifetime and industry honours. He was also honoured nationally with the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
A Lasting Legacy
For generations of Nigerian movie lovers, Olu Jacobs was more than an actor. He was one of the personalities who helped connect Nigeria’s traditional theatre culture with the modern film industry.
His death marks the end of an era for one of Nigeria’s most recognisable performing artists.
As family, colleagues and admirers mourn his passing, his extensive body of work remains part of the country’s entertainment history.
Olu Jacobs was 84.
