President says veteran thespian helped shape Nigeria’s global creative identity

By : Chioma Vivian James

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mourned the death of veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who passed away at the age of 84 on Tuesday.

The President described the late thespian as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished actors and a towering figure whose remarkable career left an indelible mark on theatre, television and film, both in Nigeria and on the international stage.

Olu Jacobs’ death marks the end of an extraordinary career that spanned several decades and helped establish a professional standard for generations of Nigerian actors and filmmakers.

Born into a generation that laid the foundation for Nigeria’s modern performing arts industry, Jacobs trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. Following his training, he built an impressive career in British television and international film before returning to Nigeria, where he became one of the most respected figures in the country’s rapidly expanding film industry.

Throughout his career, Jacobs received numerous industry honours and awards in recognition of his outstanding performances and contribution to the creative sector. His service to the nation was also acknowledged through his conferment with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).

President Tinubu said Jacobs’ influence extended beyond his memorable performances, noting that his talent, discipline and dedication contributed significantly to the development and professionalisation of Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

According to the President, the late actor inspired generations of performers and filmmakers through his exceptional ability to give depth, dignity and authenticity to the characters he portrayed.

“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,” President Tinubu said.

The President further acknowledged the broader contribution of Nigerian creative practitioners to the country’s cultural identity, international image and economic development, stressing that Olu Jacobs played a significant role in shaping that identity.

“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,” he said.

Beyond his acclaimed performances, Jacobs was widely regarded as one of the actors whose careers helped bridge Nigeria’s traditional theatre culture with the emerging television and film industries, earning him recognition at home and abroad.

President Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the Jacobs family, particularly his wife, veteran actress Chief Joke Silva, their children and relatives, as well as colleagues, friends and the wider Nigerian creative community.

He prayed for the repose of the soul of the celebrated actor and offered his condolences to all who mourn his passing.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
September 16, 2026