President Tinubu mourns as veteran actor Olu Jacobs dies at 84

Obituaries

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed sadness over the death of veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who died at the age of 84 on Tuesday.

After training at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, Olu Jacobs built a career in British television and international film before returning to Nigeria, where he became a major figure in the country’s film industry.

He received several industry honours and awards for his contributions to the performing arts and was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).

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In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on September 16, 2026, President Tinubu described Jacobs as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished actors and a towering figure whose career spanned theatre, television and film in Nigeria and internationally.

The President acknowledged Jacobs’ contributions to the development and professionalisation of Nigeria’s entertainment industry, saying his exceptional talent, discipline and dedication to his craft inspired generations of actors and filmmakers.

Tinubu also praised the late actor’s ability to bring depth, dignity and authenticity to the characters he portrayed, earning him admiration in Nigeria and beyond.

“He was a giant of the Nigerian creative industry. His passing is a great loss to Nigeria, the African film industry and the global community of lovers of the performing arts. His remarkable body of work will continue to speak to generations yet unborn.

“The nation recognises the enormous contributions of Nigeria’s creative practitioners to the country’s cultural identity, global image and economic development. Olu Jacobs played a big role in creating this identity,” the President said.

The President extended his condolences to the Jacobs family, particularly his wife, veteran actress Chief Joke Silva, their children and relatives, as well as colleagues in the Nigerian film industry and the wider creative community.

He prayed for the repose of the deceased actor’s soul.