President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mourned the death of veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who died at the age of 84.
In a condolence statement issued on Tuesday, September 16, 2026, by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described the late actor as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished thespians and a towering figure in the global entertainment industry.
According to the statement, Olu Jacobs built an illustrious career spanning theatre, television and film after receiving training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London.
He subsequently worked in British television and international film before returning to Nigeria, where he played a significant role in the growth and professionalisation of the country’s film industry.
The late actor received several major industry honours and awards during his career and was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
President Tinubu said Jacobs’ exceptional talent, discipline and dedication to his craft inspired generations of actors and filmmakers and contributed significantly to the development of Nigeria’s creative industry.
The President also praised Jacobs’ ability to bring depth, dignity and authenticity to the characters he portrayed, noting that his performances earned him admiration both in Nigeria and internationally.
“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,” Tinubu said.
The President further acknowledged the contributions of Nigeria’s creative practitioners to the country’s cultural identity, international image and economic development.
“Olu Jacobs played a big role in creating this identity,” he said.
Tinubu extended his condolences to the Jacobs family, particularly his wife, veteran actress Chief Joke Silva, their children, relatives, colleagues in the Nigerian film industry and the wider creative community.
He prayed for the repose of the late actor’s soul.
