President Tinubu mourns veteran Nollywood icon Olu Jacobs, 84

Veteran Nollywood actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, widely known as Olu Jacobs, died at age 84 on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. After training at London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, he built a career in British television and international film before returning to Nigeria, where he became a pioneering force in the local film industry. Jacobs won numerous industry honours and was conferred the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). President Bola Tinubu expressed sadness, describing Jacobs as one of Nigeria's most distinguished actors and a towering figure whose career spanned theatre, television and film globally. The president acknowledged his role in developing and professionalising Nigeria's entertainment industry, noting that his talent, discipline and dedication inspired generations of actors and filmmakers. He also praised Jacobs's ability to bring depth, dignity and authenticity to his roles, earning admiration both at home and abroad. The president condoled with Jacobs's wife, veteran actress Chief Joke Silva, their children, relatives, colleagues in the Nigerian film industry and the wider creative community, praying for the repose of his soul.

SOURCE: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/entertainment/910114-tinubu-mourns-veteran-actor-olu-jacobs.html