Veteran Nigerian actor Olu Jacobs has died at the age of 84, following a legendary career spanning more than five decades in theatre, television and cinema.
His family announced his death on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
In a statement, his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, and son, Olusoji Jacobs, described him as the “Lion of Lufodo.”
The family expressed gratitude to God for his life and requested privacy as they mourn the celebrated actor.
Born Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs on July 11, 1942, in Kano, Olu Jacobs became one of Africa’s most respected and recognisable actors.
He received formal dramatic training at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London.
Jacobs began building an international acting career in Britain during the 1970s and 1980s.
He appeared in popular British television productions including The Goodies, Angels, The Tomorrow People, The Bill and The Professionals.
He also featured in international films such as Ashanti (1979), The Dogs of War (1980), Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend (1985) and Pirates (1986).
After returning to Nigeria, Jacobs played a significant role in the development of the modern Nigerian film industry.
He featured in more than 120 Nigerian film productions, including Oloibiri, Dry, The Royal Hibiscus Hotel and Adesuwa.
His commanding performances often saw him portray traditional rulers, chiefs, monarchs and elder statesmen.
In 2007, Jacobs won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his performance in Dancing Heart.
In 2016, he and Joke Silva were jointly honoured with the AMAA Lifetime Achievement Award during the 12th edition of the awards in Port Harcourt.
The couple also co-founded the Lufodo Group, including the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts and film production ventures.
Jacobs was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
He also received the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards.
His death marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in Nigerian theatre, television and cinema, with generations of actors and audiences shaped by his work.
