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| The late Olu Jacobs |
Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, widely known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
The actor’s passing was shared by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a statement posted to Instagram on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
Olusoji paid tribute to his father’s life and career, describing him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”
“It is with gratitude to God for a life well lived and fought, that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father, grandfather and uncle. The Lion of Lufodo,” he wrote.
In the same message, Olusoji appealed for privacy as the family grieves. “We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time,” he added.
Olu Jacobs was one of the most recognisable figures in Nigeria’s theatre, television and film industries, with a career spanning several decades.
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before launching his professional acting career in Britain. He appeared in several British television productions and international films before returning to Nigeria, where he became one of the leading actors of his generation.
His commanding presence and range made him a staple of Nigerian cinema during Nollywood’s formative years. He starred in numerous films and was often cast as authoritative, complex and unforgettable characters.
Alongside acting, Jacobs worked in theatre and film production. He and his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, co‑founded the Lufodo Group, a company that became instrumental in nurturing Nigeria’s performing arts and entertainment sector.
Jacobs received multiple honours for his contributions to the arts, including the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Africa International Film Festival.
In 2011 he was also awarded the national honour Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
In recent years he largely retreated from the public eye; his wife had spoken publicly about his health and his reduced involvement in acting.
Together, Jacobs and Silva were one of Nigeria’s most recognised acting couples, building a family and a professional partnership rooted in theatre and film.
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