Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, died at age 84.
The celebrated actor passed away on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. His son, OlusojiJacobs, announced the death on behalf of the family, describing him as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle.
The family referred to the late actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and said he lived a life they were grateful for. They also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family’s privacy as they mourn his passing.
Born on July 11, 1942, in Kano, Nigeria, OluJacobs developed an interest in acting from an early age. He participated in drama and debating activities while growing up and later travelled to the United Kingdom to pursue professional training in acting.
He trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London and began building his career through theatre and British television. During the 1970s, he appeared in several British television productions, including The Goodies, Till Death Us Do Part, Barlow at Large, The Venturers, Angels, The Tomorrow People and The Professionals. He also appeared in international films, including The Dogs of War and Pirates.
After establishing himself abroad, Jacobs returned to Nigeria and became one of the most recognisable faces in the country’s theatre, television and film industries.
Over the decades, he starred in numerous Nigerian productions and became known for his commanding screen presence, distinctive voice and ability to portray a wide range of characters.
His career spanned more than five decades and contributed significantly to the development and professionalisation of Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Beyond acting, Olu Jacobs was also involved in film production and arts education. Together with his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, he was associated with the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, through which they contributed to the development of performing arts and emerging talent in Nigeria.
Jacobs received several major honours during his illustrious career.
In 2007, he won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. He later received the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa International Film Festival. In 2011, he was honoured by the Nigerian government with the national award of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) for his contribution to the arts.
His marriage to Joke Silva also became one of Nigeria’s most recognised celebrity unions. The couple married in 1989 and worked together in the entertainment industry for decades, building both a family and a shared legacy in Nigerian theatre and film.
In his later years, Jacobs largely stayed away from the public spotlight. His family had previously had to dismiss several false reports of his death. His passing on September 16, 2026, has now been formally confirmed by his family.
Olu Jacobs leaves behind a legacy that stretches from British theatre and television to the growth of modern Nollywood.
For generations of Nigerian and African audiences, his voice, presence and memorable performances became part of the history of African cinema.
Olu Jacobs was 84. 11 July 1942 – 16 September 2026.