President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday, September 16, mourned veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who died at the age of 84, describing him as a giant of the Nigerian creative industry.
In a statement issued by his special adviser on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the late actor as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished actors and a towering figure whose career spanned theatre, television and film globally.
The president said Jacobs contributed to the development and professionalisation of Nigeria’s entertainment industry and inspired generations of actors and filmmakers through his talent, discipline and dedication to his craft.
Tinubu also praised Jacobs’ ability to bring depth, dignity, and authenticity to the characters he portrayed, saying this earned him 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.
“The nation recognises the enormous contributions of Nigeria’s creative practitioners to the country’s cultural identity, global image and economic development. Olu Jacobs played a big role in creating this identity,” the president said.
According to the statement, Jacobs trained at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts and built a career in British television and international film before returning to Nigeria, where he became a major figure in the country’s film industry.
He received several industry honours and awards and was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic.
Tinubu extended his condolences to the Jacobs family, particularly his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, their children, relatives, colleagues in the Nigerian film industry, and the wider creative community.
He prayed for the repose of Jacobs’ soul.
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