Olu Jacobs: 10 things to know about late Nollywood actor

Veteran Nollywood 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 Wednesday, September 16, 2026.

Below are 10 things to know about the late actor:

1. Olu Jacobs was born on July 11, 1942, in Kano, Nigeria.
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2. His full name is Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, although he became widely known as Olu Jacobs.

3. He received his professional acting training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London.

4. Before returning to Nigeria, Jacobs built part of his acting career in the United Kingdom, where he featured in several television productions.

5. He appeared in international productions including The Dogs of War, Pirates and Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend.

6. Jacobs later became one of the most recognised veteran actors in Nigeria, featuring in several Nollywood movies and television productions.

7. He was married to veteran actress Joke Silva. The couple met through theatre and got married in 1989.

8. Jacobs and Joke Silva worked together in the entertainment industry and were associated with the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.

9. During his career, Jacobs received several awards and honours, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role, the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) and the AMVCA Industry Merit Award.

10. Olu Jacobs died on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84. His son, Olusoji, announced his death in an Instagram post, describing him as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, and referring to him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”

The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn the veteran actor.