By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
Tributes have continued to pour in for veteran Nigerian actor, Olu Jacobs, with many Nigerians taking to several social media platforms to reflect on the late actor’s contribution to the film industry.
Jacobs passed on Wednesday, September 16, at age 84, according to an Instagram post by his eldest son, Olusoji Jacobs.
“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,” Jacobs Jnr’s post read.
In their tributes, some Nigerians, including political figures and Nollywood actors, noted Jacobs’ dedication to his craft and his contribution to shaping the evolution of Nigeria’s film industry.
Reacting to the death in a tribute posted on his X handle on Wednesday, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar said Nigeria will remember Olu Jacobs with pride, affection and profound gratitude and prayed that God grants his soul eternal rest and comfort his family.
Atiku said, “I am profoundly saddened by the passing of Olu Jacobs at the age of 84. Nigeria has lost far more than a great actor; we have lost an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit.
“For generations of Nigerians, Olu Jacobs was a familiar and commanding presence in our homes. That unmistakable voice, the dignity he brought to every role and the sheer force of his talent made him one of those rare artists who did not merely act before an audience, but became part of our collective memory.
“Long before Nollywood became a global phenomenon, Olu Jacobs was already carrying the Nigerian name with distinction. Through decades of dedication to his craft, he helped lay the foundations upon which an entire industry would rise. He gave life to our stories, dignity to our culture and inspiration to countless younger actors who followed the path he helped to clear.”
In his tribute posted on X, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, described Olu Jacobs as a consummate actor and professional.
He wrote, “Consummate actor; quintessential professional; god of the screen and legend of the stage; role model and perfect gentleman. Olu Jacobs. Rest in peace.”
Several actors, entertainers and Nigerians also paid tribute to the late actor on social media.
Actress Funke Akindele tweeted, “A true legend, a kind and gracious man who was always willing to support, encourage and uplift young talents. Your remarkable legacy and contribution to our industry will never be forgotten.
“My heartfelt condolences to Aunty Joke Silva, the children, the entire Jacobs family and the Nigerian film industry. May God comfort and strengthen everyone during this difficult time. May God grant Uncle Olu eternal rest, and may He bless all of us in the creative industry with good health and long life. Amen.”
Content creator, Broda Shaggi wrote, “May his soul find eternal rest at the right hand of God, and may his memory live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.”
Actor and content creator William Uchemba said, “A life well spent, Rest Well Legend.”
Podcast host, Isbae U wrote, “Rest well, Legend.”
Comedian and actor, Mr Macaroni, described Jacobs as a “Legend, Icon and an absolute Inspiration to us all!”
Actress Ini Edo wrote, “Rest well Uncle! You will forever be in our hearts.”
@BSAT_Properties tweeted, “Recently, after the viral IsbaeU podcast with the legendary actor, Pete Edochie, some Nigerians felt that bar his sickness, Olu Jacobs would have been more popular.
“Well, the legendary actor, who showcased his skills on the global scale is no longer interested in any popularity contest; he simply wants to rest peacefully at 84. Rest in eternal peace, Olu Jacobs.”
A tribute by @Mautiin01 read, “Nigeria has lost one of the greats of stage and screen. Sir Olu Jacobs leaves behind a legacy that spans theatre, British TV and Nigerian cinema. A true screen legend whose work will live on forever. Rest well, Sir Olu Jacobs.”
Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s prominent veteran actors, with a career spanning theatre, television and film.
He was also a film executive and, alongside his wife, Joke Silva, was associated with the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and appeared in several British television productions and international films before becoming a major figure in Nigeria’s film industry.
After establishing himself in Britain, Jacobs returned to Nigeria and became a major figure in the country’s growing entertainment industry.
His career covered theatre, television and film, with the actor appearing in hundreds of productions over the years.
In Nollywood, Jacobs became particularly known for playing kings, chiefs, traditional rulers, patriarchs and other authoritative characters.
His deep voice, commanding presence and theatrical training made him one of the most recognisable veteran actors on the African continent.
He received the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2013 and the Africa Movie Academy Awards’ Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. He was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011.
