Olu Jacobs

Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84. His son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced his death on Instagram on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. In a statement, the family described the late actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family’s privacy during the mourning period. Olu Jacobs’ Legacy in Nollywood Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most recognised veteran actors, with a career spanning theatre, television and film. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in England and began his acting career in Britain, where he worked with repertoire theatres and appeared in television productions and international films. After returning to Nigeria, he became a prominent figure in Nollywood and built a reputation as one of the industry’s veteran actors. Jacobs won 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). Jacobs was married to fellow veteran actress Joke Silva, with whom he had children.