Veteran Nigerian Actor Olu Jacobs Dies at 84

Veteran Nigerian actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has passed away at the age of 84.

His wife, AJoke Silva, shared the news in an Instagram post on Wednesday. “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.

He also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time. Olu Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most celebrated veteran actors, with a career that spanned theatre, television, and film.

He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London and began his career in British television. He later appeared in several international productions before returning to Nigeria, where he became a towering figure in the country’s film industry.

He went on to feature in numerous Nigerian films and became widely known for his commanding performances, earning several industry honours, including the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa International Film Festival.

Jacobs was also a film executive who, alongside his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, was involved in the Lufodo Group and the development of performing arts in Nigeria.