Emmanuel Obi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have 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 separate statements on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, President Tinubu, through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, and Atiku Abubakar expressed condolences to the Jacobs family and the wider creative community over the actor’s passing.
President Tinubu described Olu Jacobs as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished actors and a towering figure whose career spanned theatre, television and film globally.
The President acknowledged Jacobs’ contributions to the development and professionalisation of Nigeria’s entertainment industry, noting that he inspired generations of actors and filmmakers through his talent, discipline and dedication to his craft.
Tinubu also praised the late actor’s 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.
He 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, while praying for the repose of his soul.
Atiku, in his statement, described Olu Jacobs as “an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit.”
He said the late actor was a familiar and commanding presence in the homes of generations of Nigerians, praising the dignity he brought to his roles and the impact of his talent.
Atiku also highlighted Jacobs’ contribution to the Nigerian film industry, saying that through decades of dedication to his craft, he helped lay foundations upon which the industry would rise.
“My heart goes especially to his beloved wife and lifelong partner, Joke Silva, their children and the entire Jacobs family. I pray that the memories of the beautiful life they shared with him will bring them strength through this painful season,” Atiku said.
He also extended his condolences to the Nollywood family, the wider African creative community and admirers of the late actor around the world.
Olu Jacobs, who was born on July 11, 1942, died on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84.
