LAGOS, NIGERIA — Veteran Nollywood actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has been laid to rest in Lagos following a funeral service attended by family members, friends and prominent figures in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
The funeral service was held on Friday, October 2, 2026, at This Present House Church in Lekki, Lagos, bringing together colleagues and admirers to honour an actor whose career spanned several decades across theatre, television and film.
Jacobs, who died on September 16 at the age of 84, was remembered for his contribution to Nigeria’s performing arts and his influence on generations of actors and filmmakers.
Entertainment Industry Pays Tribute
Entertainment entrepreneur and singer Darey Art Alade was among those who paid tribute during the funeral service.
He performed his song, “Pray For Me,” which featured Jacobs and his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva.
Jacobs’ son, Olugbenga Jacobs, also presented his father’s biography during the proceedings as guests reflected on the actor’s life, career and legacy.
The funeral came two days after a Night of Tributes held at Glover Memorial Hall on Lagos Island.
The event attracted Nollywood actors, filmmakers, industry executives and other well-wishers who gathered to celebrate Jacobs and his contribution to Nigeria’s entertainment sector.
Family Announces His Death
Jacobs died on September 16, 2026. His family announced his death, with his son, Olusoji Jacobs, confirming the development in a statement shared on Instagram.
The family described him as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, while asking members of the public, bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy during the mourning period.
The family identified him by his full name, Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs, and stated that he was born on July 11, 1942.
Career Spanned Theatre And Film
Born in Nigeria, Jacobs developed an interest in acting at an early age before travelling to the United Kingdom, where he trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.
He subsequently built a career through theatre and appearances in British television productions and international films before becoming one of the most recognisable figures in Nigeria’s film and television industry.
His distinctive voice, commanding screen presence and ability to portray authoritative and complex characters made him a familiar face to generations of Nigerian audiences.
Jacobs’ career also extended beyond Nollywood, with appearances in international productions including The Dogs of War, Pirates and Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend.
He also featured in several British television productions during his career.
Contribution Beyond Acting
Jacobs and his wife, Joke Silva, were involved in the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.
Through their work in the performing arts, the couple contributed to the development and training of young talents in theatre and related creative fields.
Jacobs received several honours during his career, including the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011 for his contribution to the Nigerian film industry.
He also received the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards.
Remembered Alongside Joke Silva
Jacobs’ marriage to Joke Silva became one of the most recognised partnerships in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
The two met through theatre, later married and collaborated on several creative projects throughout their careers.
Silva remained closely involved in Jacobs’ life during his later years as he dealt with health challenges.
With his burial in Lagos, family, colleagues and admirers have formally laid to rest an actor whose career crossed Nigerian theatre, television and cinema and extended into international productions.
