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Veteran Nigerian actor Olu Jacobs dies at 84
16th September, 2026 02:06 PM
Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
Jacobs’ family announced his death on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, describing him as a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and uncle.
In a statement, the family referred to the celebrated actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and said he lived a life that was well fought and well lived.
“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 statement reads.
“Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs (MFR) 11/07/1942-16/09/2026. “
The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn the veteran actor.
“We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time,” the family said.
Jacobs was born on July 11, 1942, in Kano, Nigeria, and had roots in the Egba Alake community of Abeokuta, Ogun State.
He developed an interest in acting while growing up, participating in school drama, debating activities and church programmes. His passion for theatre was further strengthened after watching a performance by renowned Nigerian theatre practitioner Hubert Ogunde.
Career in theatre and film
Jacobs later travelled to the United Kingdom, where he studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London.
He went on to work with several British repertoire theatres and appeared in television productions including The Goodies, Till Death Us Do Part, The Professionals, The Tomorrow People and Barlow at Large.
His international film credits included The Dogs of War (1980), Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend (1985) and Pirates (1986).
After returning to Nigeria, Jacobs became one of the most recognisable faces in the country’s growing film industry. He appeared in hundreds of theatre, television and film productions and became particularly known for portraying kings, chiefs, traditional rulers and patriarchs.
His commanding voice and stage presence made him one of Nollywood’s most distinguished veteran actors.
Awards and recognition
Jacobs received several honours during his career, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007.
He also received the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
In 2011, he was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) by the Nigerian government for his contribution to the arts.
Jacobs was married to fellow veteran actress Joke Silva, with whom he co-founded the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.
The actor spent his later years largely away from the public spotlight as his health affected his appearances.
His death marks the end of a career spanning more than five decades and leaves behind a legacy that helped shape Nigerian theatre, television and cinema.
