President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mourned veteran Nollywood actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who died at 84 on Wednesday.
Tinubu described Jacobs as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished actors and a towering figure whose career spanned theatre, television and film in Nigeria and abroad.
“He was a giant of the Nigerian creative industry. His passing is a great loss to Nigeria, the African film industry and the global community of lovers of the performing arts. His remarkable body of work will continue to speak to generations yet unborn.”
Jacobs trained at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts before building a career in British television and international film. He later returned to Nigeria, where he became a major figure in the country’s film industry.
The President said Jacobs contributed to the development and professionalisation of Nigeria’s entertainment industry and inspired generations of actors and filmmakers through his talent, discipline and dedication.
Tinubu also praised Jacobs’ ability to bring depth, dignity and authenticity to the characters he portrayed, earning him recognition in Nigeria and internationally.
Jacobs received major industry honours during his career and was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
Tinubu said Jacobs’ contribution extended beyond his acting career, noting the role of creative practitioners in shaping Nigeria’s cultural identity, global image and economic development.
“The nation recognises the enormous contributions of Nigeria’s creative practitioners to the country’s cultural identity, global image and economic development. Olu Jacobs played a big role in creating this identity.”
The President extended his condolences to Jacobs’ wife, veteran actress Chief Joke Silva, their children, relatives, colleagues in the Nigerian film industry and the wider creative community. He also prayed for the repose of the late actor’s soul.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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