The family of veteran Nigerian actor, Olu Jacobs has announced his death at the age of 84.
A statement shared on Instagram via the actor’s son account on Wednesday, 16 September 2026, said Jacobs died after a life described by his family as “well lived and fought”.
The statement identified him by his full name, Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs (MFR), and gave his dates of birth and death as 11 July 1942 – 16 September 2026.
“It is with gratitude to God for a life well lived and fought, that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father, grandfather and uncle. The Lion of Lufodo.”
The family also asked bloggers and social media users to respect its privacy following the announcement.
“We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our families privacy at this time.”
Who was Olu Jacobs?
Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most recognisable actors, with a career spanning stage, television and film.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London and began his professional career in Britain before returning to Nigeria. His early international work included appearances in British television productions and films.
After returning to Nigeria, he became a prominent figure in the country’s theatre and film industries. He also appeared in the NTA television series The Third Eye and went on to feature in numerous Nigerian films.
His career also extended beyond acting. Jacobs co-founded Lufodo Group with his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, with interests including film production and an academy for performing arts.
National honour and lifetime achievement awards
Jacobs received the Nigerian national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011 for his contribution to the country’s entertainment industry.
He also won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007.
The actor received the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2013 and the AMAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
His work across Nigerian and international productions helped establish him as one of the veteran figures of African screen acting.
His final years in the public eye
Jacobs’ appearances in public became less frequent in his later years.
In 2021, false reports of his death circulated online. He later appeared at the Africa International Film Festival, where he received a lifetime achievement award.
His family has now confirmed his death, ending years of uncertainty created by previous false reports.
At the time of publication, the family statement did not disclose the cause of death or details of funeral arrangements.
What happens next?
The family has asked the public and media to respect its privacy as it mourns.
Further details about the funeral and memorial arrangements are expected to come from the family.
For an industry in which Jacobs worked for more than five decades, his death marks the loss of one of the veteran actors who helped connect Nigeria’s traditional theatre culture with its modern film industry.
