Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has joined a growing list of prominent Nigerians mourning the death of veteran Nollywood actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs.
Jacobs died on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at the age of 84, according to an announcement by his family.
His son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced the death on Instagram, describing the late actor as “The Lion of Lufodo.” The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect its privacy as it mourns.
Reacting to the death, Keyamo paid tribute to the veteran actor, describing him as a consummate professional and one of the outstanding figures to emerge from Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
The minister described Jacobs as a “consummate actor; quintessential professional; god of the screen and legend of the stage; role model and perfect gentleman,” before concluding his tribute with: “Olu Jacobs. Rest in peace.”
Jacobs’ death has generated widespread reactions across Nigeria, particularly within Nollywood, where colleagues and admirers have continued to celebrate his contribution to theatre, television and film.
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs developed an interest in acting early in life before travelling to Britain, where he trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. He subsequently worked in theatre and appeared in several British television productions and international films before returning to Nigeria and becoming one of the most recognisable faces of the Nigerian film industry.
His career spanned more than five decades and included work across stage, television and cinema. He appeared in international productions including The Dogs of War, Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend and Pirates, while his later career in Nigeria established him as one of the respected veterans of Nollywood.
Jacobs was particularly admired for his commanding voice, dignified screen presence and ability to portray authoritative characters, including traditional rulers, chiefs and family patriarchs. His performances helped make him a familiar presence to generations of Nigerian viewers.
Beyond acting, Jacobs contributed to the development of the performing arts through his work with the Lufodo Group, which he co-founded with his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva. The couple also established the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts to train emerging talents in the creative industry.
His contribution to the arts earned him several honours. He won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007 and received the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011. He also received other industry and lifetime-achievement recognitions.
The family’s announcement described Jacobs as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, while paying tribute to his life and describing him as the “Lion of Lufodo.”
As tributes continue to pour in, Keyamo’s remarks reflect the widespread recognition of Jacobs’ influence on Nigeria’s creative sector. His passing marks the end of a career that connected professional theatre, television, international cinema and the growth of modern Nollywood.
