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 towering figure in Nigeria’s creative industry.
Jacobs, who died at the age of 84, was said to have passed away on Wednesday. His death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Instagram.
In a condolence statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the late actor as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished performers whose career spanned theatre, television and international film.
The President said Jacobs played a significant role in the development and professionalisation of Nigeria’s entertainment industry, while inspiring generations of actors and filmmakers through his talent, discipline and dedication.
Tinubu also praised Jacobs for bringing “depth, dignity, and authenticity” to the characters he portrayed, qualities which, he said, earned the actor 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,” Tinubu said.
According to the statement, Jacobs trained at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts before building a career in British television and international film. He later returned to Nigeria, where he became one of the prominent figures in the country’s growing film industry.
The veteran actor received several industry honours and awards during his career and was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic.
Tinubu expressed condolences to Jacobs’ wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, their children, relatives, colleagues and the wider Nigerian creative community.
He prayed for the repose of the actor’s soul and comfort for his family.
