Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has expressed grief over the death of veteran Nollywood actor Olu Jacobs, describing his passing as a major loss to Nigeria’s creative industry and the African entertainment landscape.
Jacobs, whose full name was Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, died on Wednesday at the age of 84 after a distinguished career that spanned more than five decades across theatre, television and film.
In a statement issued in Abuja through her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Nneka Anibeze, Musawa paid tribute to the late actor, whom she described as one of the most influential figures in the history of Nigerian entertainment.
“Olu Jacobs was not just an actor; he was a national institution. He was one of the most important pillars of Nigeria’s entertainment industry and one of Africa’s greatest actors.
“For over five decades, his voice, his presence and his craft gave life to our stories and gave dignity to our industry,” she said.
The minister noted that beyond his celebrated performances on screen and stage, Jacobs played a significant role in developing future generations of actors, filmmakers and directors through the Lufodo Academy, which he founded alongside his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva.
According to her, the institution has produced hundreds of creative professionals who now occupy key positions within Nollywood and the broader film industry.
“Through the Lufodo Academy, which has trained hundreds of actors, directors and filmmakers who are now leading Nollywood, and the countless lives he touched, his legacy will continue to live on stage, on screen and in the hearts of millions of Nigerians.
“Nigeria has lost a Lion, but his light will never fade,” Musawa stated.
Widely regarded as one of the pioneers of modern Nigerian film and television, Jacobs built an illustrious career that earned him recognition both within Nigeria and internationally.
He received formal training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and went on to establish himself in British theatre and television before becoming one of the defining faces of Nollywood.
In addition to acting, Jacobs and Silva co-founded the Lufodo Group, an organisation involved in film production and performing arts education aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s creative sector.
His contributions to the growth of the Nigerian entertainment industry earned him national recognition, including the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic honour conferred by the Federal Government.
Musawa extended condolences to Silva, their children, the Jacobs family, colleagues in the entertainment industry and millions of Nigerians whose lives were touched by the late actor’s work and enduring legacy.
