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Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo have joined Nigerians in mourning veteran actor Olu Jacobs, who died at the age of 84 on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
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Atiku described Jacobs as “an institution” and “a cultural icon,” while Keyamo praised him as a consummate actor, professional, and legend of the stage.
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Actors and entertainers including Broda Shaggi, Williams Uchemba, Mr Macaroni and Ini Edo also shared tributes, remembering Jacobs’ influence on their generation and Nigerian entertainment.
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Jacobs’ death has prompted widespread reflection on a career that spanned British theatre and television, international film and the growth of Nollywood.
September 16, (THEWILL) – Nigerians have taken to social media to mourn veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Olu Jacobs following his death at the age of 84.
Jacobs’ death was announced on Wednesday, September 16, by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, who described him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”
The family also asked the public to respect its privacy as they mourn his passing.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar was among those who honoured the late actor.
In a statement shared on X, Atiku described Jacobs as “an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit.”
He recalled Jacobs’ commanding presence on screen and his place in the memories of generations of Nigerians.
Atiku also highlighted the actor’s contribution to the development of Nigeria’s film industry, noting that Jacobs was already making an impact before Nollywood became a global name.
“The curtain may have fallen on an extraordinary life, but the characters he gave us, the standards he set and the generations he inspired will continue to speak for him,” Atiku said.
He extended his condolences to Jacobs’ wife, actress Joke Silva, their children and the wider entertainment community.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo also mourned Jacobs, describing him as a “consummate actor,” “quintessential professional” and “legend of the stage.”
“Consummate actor; quintessential professional; god of the screen and legend of the stage; role model and perfect gentleman. Olu Jacobs. Rest in peace,” Keyamo wrote.
Several entertainers also remembered Jacobs, with actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele describing him as “a true legend” and “a kind and gracious man” who supported, encouraged, and uplifted young talents.
“Your remarkable legacy and contribution to our industry will never be forgotten,” she wrote, while extending her condolences to Joke Silva, the children and the Jacobs family.
Akindele also prayed for Jacobs’ eternal rest and for good health and long life for those in the creative industry.
Actor and content creator Williams Uchemba wrote, “A life well spent, Rest Well Legend,” while Mr Macaroni described Jacobs as a “Legend, Icon and an absolute Inspiration to us all!”
Broda Shaggi and Ini Edo also paid tribute, with Shaggi praying for the actor’s soul and Ini Edo writing, “Rest well Uncle! You will forever be in our hearts.”
Tributes have continued to pour in from Nigerians online, with many recalling Jacobs’ performances and the memories they formed watching his work.
Jacobs built a career spanning more than five decades across theatre, television and film.
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He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and appeared in British television productions and international films before becoming one of the most recognised figures in Nigerian cinema.
He also co-founded the Lufodo Group with Joke Silva and was involved in the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, which provides professional training in the performing arts.
Jacobs received several honours during his career, including the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic and the Africa Movie Academy Awards’ Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
His work across stage and screen earned him a lasting place in Nigeria’s entertainment history, with his performances continuing to resonate with audiences across generations.
Evi-Ben Ezaga is an entertainment and society writer with a passion for stories that explore culture, people, and the stories shaping society today.
