Veteran Nollywood Actor Olu Jacobs Dies at 84

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 wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, shared a statement announcing his passing and appealed to the public to respect the family’s privacy during the period of mourning.

The family described Jacobs as “The Lion of Lufodo” and said his life was one of fulfilment and resilience.

“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,” the family stated.

Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs built a career spanning theatre, television and film in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before appearing in British television productions and international films.

After returning to Nigeria, he became one of the prominent figures in the country’s emerging film industry and went on to feature in numerous Nollywood productions.

Jacobs received several honours during his career, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2013 and a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. He was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011.

He and Joke Silva were also associated with the Lufodo Group, including the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.

The family, while announcing his death, specifically appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to allow them to mourn privately.

“We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time,” the statement added.

Jacobs’ death marks the passing of one of the veteran actors whose career bridged Nigeria’s theatre tradition, television era and the development of modern Nollywood.