President Tinubu Mourns Veteran Nollywood Actor Olu Jacobs

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mourned the death of veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who died at the age of 84.

In a condolence message issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Jacobs as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished actors and a towering figure whose career spanned theatre, television and film.

The President said Jacobs made significant contributions to the development and professionalisation of Nigeria’s entertainment industry, inspiring generations of actors and filmmakers through his talent, discipline and dedication to his craft.

After training at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, Jacobs built a career in British television and international film before returning to Nigeria, where he became one of the leading figures in the country’s film industry.

He received several major industry honours during his career and was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).

Tinubu also praised Jacobs’ ability to bring depth, dignity and authenticity to the characters he portrayed, earning 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 President said.

Tinubu said Nigeria’s creative practitioners had made significant contributions to the country’s cultural identity, global image and economic development, adding that Jacobs played a major role in creating that identity.

The President extended his condolences to Jacobs’ wife, veteran actress Chief Joke Silva, their children, relatives, colleagues in the Nigerian film industry and the wider creative community.

He prayed for the repose of the actor’s soul.