By Mardiyyah Abubakar
Veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
His son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced the actor’s death on Instagram on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
In a statement, the family describes the actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” and appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family’s privacy as they mourn his passing.
“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 said.
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most respected actors, with a career spanning theatre, television and film.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in England and began his professional acting career in Britain before returning to Nigeria, where he became a major figure in the country’s film industry.
Over the course of his career, Jacobs received several honours for his contribution to African entertainment.
He won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007 and received the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards.
He was also honoured with the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016 and conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
Jacobs was married to fellow veteran actress Joke Silva, with whom he had a family.
He is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.
Edited by Julian Osamoto
