By Florencemary Nwabueze
The Actors Guild of Nigeria mourns following the death of renowned actor, Chief Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who passed away on 16th September 2026, at the age of 84.
In a statement released by the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Lagos State Chapter, the Chairman mrs. Mary Edward expressed profound sorrow over the loss, describing it as "the closing of a remarkable chapter in the history of Nigerian theatre and cinema."
According to her, Olu Jacobs death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, who said his father is "The Lion of Lufodo" and appealed on behalf of the family for privacy during the difficult time.
"The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Lagos State Chapter, has received with profound sorrow the passing of one of Nigeria’s most distinguished actors, filmmakers, theatre practitioners and cultural icons, Chief Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, MFR, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who passed away on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84.
"On behalf of the leadership and entire membership of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Lagos State Chapter, I extend our deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Veteran Actress Mrs. Joke Silva, his children, grandchildren, the entire Lufodo family, friends, colleagues and admirers across Nigeria, Africa and the global creative community.
"The announcement of his passing by his son, Olusoji Jacobs describing him as“The Lion of Lufodo,” has brought an immeasurable sense of loss to an industry that regarded Chief Olu Jacobs not merely as an actor, but as one of its most enduring pillars. The family also appealed for privacy as they mourn.
"To Mrs. Joke Silva his lifelong partner, colleague and companion; to his children and grandchildren; to Olusoji Jacobs and the entire Jacobs and Lufodo families, we say:
May God grant you strength, comfort and courage at this painful moment.
"The Actors Guild of Nigeria, Lagos State Chapter, stands with you in grief and honours the extraordinary life and legacy of a man who gave so much to Nigerian entertainment." The statement reads
Born into a generation of actors whose artistry transcended entertainment, Olu Jacobs was celebrated as a custodian of theatrical excellence and a mentor to many. His illustrious career spanned theatre, television, and film, with professional experience in both Britain and Nigeria.
A trained graduate of the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, he worked extensively in British theatre and television before returning to Nigeria. Upon his return, he became one of the defining figures of the country's modern film industry, becoming synonymous with commanding screen presence, eloquence, and exceptional character interpretation.
Beyond his performances, Jacobs was an institution builder. Together with his wife, veteran actress Mrs. Joke Silva, he co-founded the Lufodo Group. The group encompasses production, distribution, and professional training through the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, a structure that has helped develop future generations of creative professionals.
His contributions to the industry were recognized with numerous honours, including the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011. He also received the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2013, and the AMAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
Olu Jacobs is survived by his wife, Joke Silva, his children, and a legacy of excellence that has left an indelible mark on Nollywood and the global creative community.