Veteran Nollywood Actor Olu Jacobs Dies at 84


 

By Abel Chigozie 


Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.

The actor’s death was announced by his family on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. His son, Olusoji Jacobs, shared the announcement on Instagram, while the family described the late actor as “The Lion of Lufodo.” 

According to the family, Olu Jacobs died on September 16, 2026, after a life and career spanning several decades in theatre, television and film.

The family statement read in part that it was announcing the passing of their “dear husband, father, grandfather and uncle” with gratitude for a life well lived. It also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family’s privacy during the period of mourning. 

Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and began his professional acting career in Britain before returning to Nigeria, where he became one of the most recognisable figures in Nollywood. 

Throughout his career, Jacobs appeared in numerous Nigerian, British and international productions. He also contributed to the development of Nigeria’s theatre and film industry alongside his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva.

Among his honours were the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, and a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. He was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.

His death marks the end of the life of one of Nigeria’s most prominent veteran actors, whose performances and contributions helped shape the country’s entertainment industry

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