Tributes have continued to pour in from across Nigeria for veteran actor Olu Jacobs, who passed away at the age of 84.
Olusoji, his son, announced the news in an Instagram post on Wednesday, although the cause of death was not disclosed.
President Bola Tinubu and Atiku Abubakar, former vice-president, were among prominent Nigerians who paid tribute to Jacobs.
In a statement, Tinubu described the late actor as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished thespians and a towering figure whose career spanned theatre, television and film across the globe.
The president acknowledged Jacobs’ contributions to the growth and professionalisation of Nigeria’s entertainment industry, noting that he inspired generations of actors and filmmakers through his exceptional talent, discipline and commitment to his craft.
Tinubu also commended the late actor’s ability to bring depth, dignity and authenticity to his roles, which earned him admiration both within Nigeria and internationally.
“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,” the statement reads.
“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 condoled with the bereaved family, particularly Joke Silva, his wife, and their children, relatives, colleagues in the Nigerian film industry, and the entire creative community, over the loss of the celebrated thespian.
On his part, Abubakar described Jacobs as “an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit” in a statement posted on his X handle.
“I am profoundly saddened by the passing of Olu Jacobs at the age of 84,” Atiku said.
“Nigeria has lost far more than a great actor; we have lost an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit.”
He noted that Jacobs was a familiar presence in Nigerian homes for generations, adding that “long before Nollywood became a global phenomenon, Olu Jacobs was already carrying the Nigerian name with distinction”.
Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, also mourned the actor on X, describing him as “a consummate actor; quintessential professional; god of the screen and legend of the stage; role model and perfect gentleman”.
Nollywood actor Emeka Ike was overcome with emotion upon learning of Jacobs’ death.
A video circulating on social media showed Ike speaking through his tears.
“I did not see him till he died,” he said.
Several prominent Nigerians also paid tribute to Jacobs on social media.
Actor William Uchemba described Jacobs’ life as “a life well spent,” while Mr Macaroni called him “a Legend, Icon and an absolute Inspiration to us all!”
Actress Ini Edo wrote, “Rest well Uncle! You will forever be in our hearts”.
Content creator Broda Shaggi wrote, “May his soul find eternal rest at the right hand of God, and may his memory live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him”.
