Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
His death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Instagram on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
In a statement announcing his death, the family described him as ‘The Lion of Lufodo’ and appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect its privacy during the mourning period.
‘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 family said.
Born on July 11, 1942, Olu Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most prominent actors, with a career spanning theatre, television and film.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and began his acting career in Britain, where he worked with repertory theatres and appeared in several television productions.
His international film credits included The Dogs of War, Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend and Pirates.
After returning to Nigeria, Jacobs became a prominent figure in Nollywood, earning recognition for his commanding performances and roles in numerous films.
Jacobs won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007.
He also received the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
In 2011, he was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic by the Nigerian government.
Jacobs was married to fellow veteran actress Joke Silva. Together, they founded the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, which focuses on film production, distribution and performing arts education.