President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, describing him as a “giant” of Nigeria’s creative industry.
Jacobs died at the age of 84 on Wednesday.
In a condolence message, Tinubu described the late actor as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished thespians and a towering figure whose career spanned theatre, television and film in Nigeria, Britain and other parts of the world.
The President said Jacobs made significant contributions to the growth and professionalisation of Nigeria’s entertainment industry, noting that his talent, discipline and dedication to his craft inspired generations of actors and filmmakers.
Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and built a career in British television and international film before returning to Nigeria, where he became one of the defining figures in the country’s film industry.
He received several major industry honours and awards for his contributions to the performing arts and was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic.
Tinubu also commended Jacobs for bringing depth, dignity and authenticity to the characters he portrayed, earning admiration in Nigeria and beyond.
“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.
“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 said.
Tinubu extended his condolences to the Jacobs family, particularly his wife, veteran actress Chief Joke Silva, their children and relatives, as well as Jacobs’ colleagues in the Nigerian film industry and the wider creative community.
The President prayed for the repose of the late actor’s soul and for comfort for his family, colleagues and admirers.
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