President Bola Tinubu mourns Olu Jacobs as a creative industry giant after the Nollywood veteran died at 84

On Wednesday, 16 September 2026, President Bola Tinubu mourned veteran Nollywood actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, known as Olu Jacobs, who died at 84.

Also read: Veteran Nollywood Star Olu Jacobs Dies at 84

Olusoji Jacobs announced his father’s death on Instagram the same day. Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga issued President Bola Tinubu’s tribute.

President Bola Tinubu called Olu Jacobs one of Nigeria’s most distinguished actors and a towering figure across theatre, television and film.

He said Olu Jacobs helped professionalise the entertainment industry and inspired actors and filmmakers through talent, discipline and craft. He also praised the “depth, dignity, and authenticity” Olu Jacobs brought to his roles.

“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 nation recognises the enormous contributions of Nigeria’s creative practitioners to the country’s cultural identity, global image and economic development. Olu Jacobs played a big role in creating this identity.”

The statement noted that Olu Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, worked in British television and international film, then became a major figure in Nigerian cinema.

He received industry honours and the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic.

Also read: Veteran Nollywood Star Olu Jacobs Dies at 84

President Bola Tinubu sent condolences to Joke Silva, their children, relatives, colleagues and the wider creative community, and prayed for the repose of Olu Jacobs’ soul.