16/09/2026
PRESIDENT TINUBU MOURNS VETERAN ACTOR OLU JACOBS, AGED 84
President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the passing of veteran Nollywood actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who passed away at age 84.
A statement by the Special Adviser to the President, information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga indicates that after Olu Jacobs' training at Londonโs Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, he built a career in British television and international film before returning home to Nigeria, where he became a major force in the film industry.
He won major industry honours and awards for his pioneering roles and was also conferred with the national award of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
President Tinubu describes the late Olu Jacobs as one of Nigeria's most distinguished actors and a towering figure whose remarkable career spanned theatre, television and film globally.
The statement also acknowledges his contributions to the development and professionalisation of Nigeria's entertainment industry, stating that the late Jacobs inspired generations of actors and filmmakers through his exceptional talent, discipline and dedication to his craft.
President Tinubu praises the late actor's remarkable ability to bring depth, dignity, and authenticity to the characters he portrayed, earning him admiration in Nigeria and beyond.
The statement further identifies the deacesed as a giant of the Nigerian creative industry, adding that 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.
President Tinubu maintains that 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 President in extending his heartfelt c
