Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
His death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in an Instagram post on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
Announcing his father’s passing, Olusoji described him as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, while paying tribute to him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”
“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.
The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn the veteran actor.
Olu Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most respected actors, building a career that spanned more than five decades across theatre, television and film in Nigeria and abroad.
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London before beginning his professional acting career in Britain. He appeared in British television productions and international films before returning to Nigeria, where he became one of the defining figures in the country’s film and theatre industry.
His commanding presence and distinctive voice made him a familiar face to generations of Nigerian audiences, while his performances helped cement his reputation as one of the country's leading actors.
Jacobs received several major honours during his career, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role, the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award. He was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
Beyond acting, Jacobs played an important role in the development of Nigeria’s performing arts industry. He and his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, co-founded the Lufodo Group and were involved in nurturing talent and promoting the performing arts in Nigeria.
Jacobs’ death marks the end of a remarkable career that connected British theatre and television with Nigeria’s evolving film industry and the rise of Nollywood.
He is survived by his wife, Joke Silva, children and grandchildren.
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