President Tinubu mourns Olu Jacobs at 84
President Bola Tinubu has mourned veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who died on Wednesday at the age of 84.
In a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described Jacobs as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished actors and a towering figure whose career spanned theatre, television and film.
The President said Jacobs made significant contributions to the development and professionalisation of Nigeria’s entertainment industry, inspiring generations of actors and filmmakers through his talent, discipline and dedication to his craft.
Tinubu also praised the late actor for his ability to bring depth, dignity and authenticity to the characters he portrayed, earning him recognition in 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 President said.
According to Tinubu, the nation recognises the contributions of creative practitioners to Nigeria’s cultural identity, global image and economic development, noting that Jacobs played a significant role in shaping that identity.
Jacobs trained at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts before building a career in British television and international film. He later returned to Nigeria, where he became one of the leading figures in the country’s film industry.
