President Bola Ahmed 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, with news of his passing announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Wednesday. Tinubu expressed his condolences in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The President described Jacobs as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished actors, noting that his career spanned theatre, television and film 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,” Tinubu said.
Tinubu also praised Jacobs for bringing “depth, dignity, and authenticity” to the characters he portrayed throughout his career. He said the actor’s talent, discipline and dedication inspired generations of Nigerian actors and filmmakers.
According to the President, Jacobs played an important role in shaping Nigeria’s cultural identity and strengthening the country’s presence in the global entertainment industry. He added that the late actor’s body of work would continue to influence future generations.
The tribute is significant as the death of Olu Jacobs has prompted widespread reactions from government officials, entertainers and fans across Nigeria and beyond. His career is widely regarded as part of the development of modern Nigerian theatre, television and Nollywood.
Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before establishing a career in British television and international film. He later returned to Nigeria and became a major figure in Nollywood. He received several honours during his lifetime, including the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
