Nigeria’s Ambassador-designate to Mexico, Reno Omokri, has described late veteran actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, as a national icon and a source of pride for Nigeria.
Omokri made the remarks in a tribute following the death of the celebrated actor at the age of 84. He highlighted Jacobs’ decades-long career and his contribution to Nigerian theatre, television and film.
“Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, better known as Olu Jacobs, was a National Icon and a source of pride for Nigeria,” Omokri said, adding that the actor’s pioneering international career inspired many Nigerians to pursue acting.
Recalling his childhood, Omokri said Nigerians watched Jacobs appear in British television productions and international films at a time when the country’s entertainment industry had not yet achieved its present global visibility. He specifically referenced Jacobs’ appearance in the British television series The Professionals.
Omokri also noted that Jacobs received professional training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and later built an extensive career spanning international productions and Nollywood.
According to Omokri, Jacobs’ work alongside his mentor, the late Chief Hubert Ogunde, helped establish an important foundation for Nigeria’s modern film and theatre industries. He also recalled the actor’s appearances in productions including The Dogs of War and Roman Polanski’s Pirates.
The tribute is significant as tributes continue to pour in following the death of one of Nigeria’s most recognisable veteran actors. President Bola Tinubu and other public figures have also acknowledged Jacobs’ contribution to the country’s creative sector.
Olu Jacobs trained and worked internationally before becoming a major figure in Nollywood, where he appeared in hundreds of productions. He was also honoured by the Nigerian government with the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) national award during his lifetime.
