By Precious Uti
Veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
Jacobs died on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, with his death announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a statement on behalf of the family.
The family described the late actor as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, while paying tribute to him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”
“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 said.
Jacobs was born on July 11, 1942, and built a distinguished career spanning theatre, British television, international film and Nollywood. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before beginning his professional acting career in Britain.
He appeared in several British television productions and international films before returning to Nigeria, where he became one of the most recognised figures in the country’s film industry.
Among his notable film credits are The Dogs of War (1980), Pirates (1986) and several Nigerian productions.
Beyond acting, Jacobs was also a film executive and, alongside his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, was involved in the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.
His contribution to the Nigerian arts industry earned him several honours. He won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, received the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011.
The family has appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect its privacy as it mourns the veteran actor.
Jacobs’ death brings to an end a career spanning several decades and across theatre, television and film, leaving behind a significant body of work in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
