Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo and several Nigerian entertainers have mourned veteran actor Olu Jacobs, who died on Wednesday at the age of 84.
Jacobs’ death was announced by his son, Olusoji, in an Instagram post, where he described the late actor as “The Lion of Lufodo.”
Atiku, in a statement posted on his X handle, described Jacobs as “an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit,” while offering condolences to his wife, actress Joke Silva, their children and the wider entertainment industry.
“I am profoundly saddened by the passing of Olu Jacobs at the age of 84. Nigeria has lost far more than a great actor; we have lost an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit.
“For generations of Nigerians, Olu Jacobs was a familiar and commanding presence in our homes. That unmistakable voice, the dignity he brought to every role and the sheer force of his talent made him one of those rare artists who did not merely act before an audience, but became part of our collective memory.
“Long before Nollywood became a global phenomenon, Olu Jacobs was already carrying the Nigerian name with distinction. Through decades of dedication to his craft, he helped lay the foundations upon which an entire industry would rise. He gave life to our stories, dignity to our culture and inspiration to countless younger actors who followed the path he helped to clear.”
Atiku added, “Olu Jacobs gave Nigeria his talent, his voice and a lifetime of excellence. Nigeria will remember him with pride, affection and profound gratitude. May God grant his soul eternal rest and comfort his family in this hour of grief.”
Keyamo also paid tribute to the veteran actor in a post on X, describing him as a highly accomplished performer and professional.
“Consummate actor; quintessential professional; god of the screen and legend of the stage; role model and perfect gentleman. Olu Jacobs. Rest in peace.”
Other entertainers also expressed their grief on social media. Content creator Broda Shaggi wrote, “May his soul find eternal rest at the right hand of God, and may his memory live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.”
Actor and content creator William Uchemba said, “A life well spent, Rest Well Legend,” while Isbae U wrote, “Rest well Legend ❤️ 🕊️,” and Mr Macaroni described Jacobs as a “Legend, Icon and an absolute Inspiration to us all!”
Actress Ini Edo also remembered the late actor, writing, “Rest well Uncle! You will forever be in our hearts❤️❤️❤️ 😇”
Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most prominent actors, with a career spanning theatre, television and film in Nigeria and abroad. Born on July 11, 1942, he trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and featured in British television productions and international films before becoming a major figure in Nollywood.
He was also involved in film production and performing arts education through the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, which he was associated with alongside Silva. His career earned him the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, the 2016 Africa Movie Academy Awards Lifetime Achievement Award and the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011.
