Olu Jacobs Dies at 84, Family Announces Passing of Nollywood Legend

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, on Instagram on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. The family described the veteran actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy during the period of mourning.

The family said in its statement that Jacobs’ death marked the end of a life devoted to his family, theatre and film. The announcement comes just two months after the actor marked his 84th birthday, when his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, celebrated him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”

Jacobs was one of the most recognisable figures in Nigerian theatre and film. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before building an acting career in Britain, where he worked in theatre and appeared in television productions and international films.

He later returned to Nigeria and became a major figure in the country’s developing film industry. Through his decades-long career, Jacobs worked across stage, television and film and also served as a film executive. The Lufodo Group identifies him as its co-founder and says his career spanned about five decades.

His achievements included the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, while he also received major industry and lifetime achievement honours. 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 co-founded the Lufodo Group and its performing arts academy. Silva publicly celebrated his 84th birthday in July, while the family later thanked Nigerians for the messages and prayers sent to him.

The actor had been largely away from the public spotlight in recent years. His family had previously had to dismiss false reports of his death, including a widely circulated rumour in 2024.

His death is expected to prompt tributes across Nigeria’s entertainment industry, where he was regarded as one of the veteran figures who helped shape modern Nigerian theatre and cinema. The family has not announced funeral arrangements and has asked the public and media to respect its privacy.