President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the passing of veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, at 84.
Tinubu described the late actor as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished actors and a towering figure whose remarkable career spanned theatre, television and film globally.
This is contained in a statement by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday in Abuja.
The President acknowledged Jacobs’ contributions to the development and professionalisation of Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
“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, ” Tinubu said.
Tinubu also praised Jacobs’ ability to bring depth, dignity and authenticity to the characters he portrayed, earning admiration in Nigeria and beyond.
After training at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, Jacobs built a career in British television and international film before returning to Nigeria.
He subsequently became a major force in Nigeria’s film industry, winning major industry honours and awards for his pioneering roles.
The late actor was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the Jacobs family, particularly his wife, veteran actress Chief Joke Silva, their children, relatives and colleagues.
He also condoled with the entire Nigerian creative community over the loss of the celebrated thespian.
The President prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased and comfort for his family and loved ones.
Also, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State described the death as a great loss to Nigeria’s creative industry.
Sanwo-Olu, in a condolence message by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, on Wednesday said Jacobs’ contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry would remain evergreen.
The governor said the late thespian’s talent, and creativity had left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s theatre, television and film industry.
”Without any iota of doubt, Olu Jacobs was one of the respected fathers of Nollywood.
”He was a legendary actor and filmmaker who featured in several British and Nigerian television series and movies.
”He shaped the Nigerian theatre, television and film industry for over five decades through his extraordinary talent and artistry,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu also said that Jacobs used his craft not only to entertain, but also to inspire and positively influence society.
He said the actor’s remarkable career and lasting impact had solidified his place in the history of Nigeria’s creative industry.
”The vibrant spirit he embodied and the joy he shared through his craft will always remain in our hearts.
”Olu Jacobs will be sorely missed by his family, friends, fans, associates and countless admirers of his talent and contributions to Nigerian entertainment,” he said.
The governor extended his condolences to Jacobs’ widow, Mrs Joke Silva, his family, friends and colleagues in the entertainment industry.
He prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased, and asked God to grant the family and the creative community the strength to bear the loss.
He also urged the creative community to take solace in the remarkable legacy the actor left through his decades of service to the arts and entertainment industry.
