Veteran Nollywood Actor Olu Jacobs dies at 84

Veteran Nollywood actor, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.

His wife, actress Joke Silva, announced his death in an Instagram post on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, alongside a family statement mourning the veteran actor.

The family described Jacobs as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, while also thanking God for his life and long career.

The statement read in part: “It is with gratitude to God for a life well lived and fought, that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father, grandfather and uncle. The Lion of Lufodo.”

The family identified him by his full name, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs (MFR), and recorded his dates as July 11, 1942 to September 16, 2026.

It also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family’s privacy as they mourned the loss.

Jacobs, born on July 11, 1942, built a remarkable career that spanned several decades and established him as one of Nigeria’s most respected actors.

He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before appearing in British television productions and international films. He later became a major figure in the Nigerian film industry.

Known for his commanding screen presence and distinctive voice, Jacobs featured in numerous Nigerian films and played a significant role in the development of Nollywood.

Beyond acting, he co-founded the Lufodo Group with Silva. The group includes the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, which focuses on training and developing talent in the performing arts.

The Federal Government recognised his contribution to the arts in 2011 when it conferred on him the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic, MFR.

Silva had previously disclosed that Jacobs lived with Lewy body dementia, a progressive condition that can affect thinking, movement and behaviour.

The actor marked his 84th birthday on July 11, 2026, just over two months before his death.

His death marks the loss of one of the most recognisable figures from Nigeria’s acting tradition, whose career bridged British television, international productions and the growth of Nollywood.