Lai Mohammed Mourns ‘Colossus Of Nigerian Theatre’ Olu Jacobs

Former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, has mourned the death of veteran actor, Chief Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, describing him as a “colossus of Nigerian theatre” whose contributions helped shape the country’s theatre, television and film industry.

Mohammed, in a condolence message on Friday by the Head of Strategic Communication at his media office, Nnamdi Atupulazi, described the death of the actor as the end of an “extraordinary chapter” in Nigeria’s creative industry.

He said Nigeria had lost an accomplished actor whose talent and dignity helped project the country’s creative excellence to audiences around the world.

“For more than five decades, Olu Jacobs brought intelligence, depth and authenticity to every role, leaving an imprint on generations of Nigerians and audiences abroad,” Mohammed said.

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He said Jacobs’ career, which spanned British stage and television productions before his transition into Nollywood, demonstrated that Nigerian artistes could compete internationally.

Mohammed also described the late actor as a link between traditional Nigerian theatre and the modern film industry, noting his contribution to the development of young performers alongside his wife, actress Joke Silva.

“He was a bridge between the old tradition of Nigerian theatre and the modern film industry. Beyond his acting, he was deeply committed to the growth of the creative sector, through his work and his partnership with his wife, Joke Silva,” he said.

“By training young performers, he helped build institutions and inspire a new generation.”

The former minister said Jacobs’ career demonstrated the role of the arts in cultural diplomacy and national image-building.

“He understood that culture is one of Nigeria’s greatest assets. Every time he stepped onto a stage or screen, he carried something of the Nigerian story with him, a legacy that will outlast any single role or award,” Mohammed said.

He commiserated with Joke Silva, the Jacobs family, members of the Nigerian creative community and the actor’s admirers in Nigeria and abroad.

“The curtain has fallen on the earthly performance of this great thespian, but his legacy will endure. May God grant his soul eternal rest and give his family strength to bear this loss,” he said.