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| Photo credit — Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs |
Veteran Nigerian actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, widely known as Olu Jacobs, was laid to rest in Lagos on Friday, October 2, 2026, following a funeral service that brought together family, colleagues from the entertainment industry, and public figures. The service took place at This Present House Church on Freedom Way, Lekki Phase 1.
Jacobs passed away on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84. His death marked the end of a remarkable career that spanned more than five decades and helped shape modern Nigerian theatre, television and film. He is survived by his wife, acclaimed actress Joke Silva, and their sons.
The funeral service attracted notable attendees, including Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Lagos First Lady Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, and former Ogun State Governor Senator Ibikunle Amosun. Members of the creative community and other dignitaries also gathered to pay their respects and celebrate a life dedicated to the arts.
Two days earlier, on Wednesday, September 30, a Night of Tributes and Service of Songs was held at Glover Memorial Hall on Lagos Island. The evening drew a large turnout of Nollywood personalities who shared memories and acknowledged Jacobs’ influence. Among those present were Richard Mofe-Damijo, Sola Sobowale, Funke Akindele, Jide Kosoko, Adebayo Salami, Kate Henshaw, Hilda Dokubo, Segun Arinze, Rita Dominic, Emeka Ike, Femi Adebayo, Desmond Elliot, Ejike Asiegbu, Keppy Ekpenyong, Norbert Young, and many others.
Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, also attended the tribute event.
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A Career That Defined Generations
Born on July 11, 1942, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Olu Jacobs trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London. He began his professional journey in British theatre and television before returning to Nigeria, where he became one of the most respected figures in the emerging Nollywood industry.
Jacobs was often described as a father figure of Nigerian cinema. His commanding screen presence, deep voice, and ability to portray complex characters earned him widespread admiration. He appeared in numerous stage productions, television series and films, including notable titles that helped elevate Nigerian storytelling to both local and international audiences. Over the years he received several honours, including the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) and recognition at the Africa Movie Academy Awards.
For many younger actors, Jacobs represented professionalism, discipline and excellence. Colleagues frequently spoke of his generosity with advice and his insistence that no role or line was too small. His work helped professionalise aspects of the industry at a time when Nollywood was still finding its footing.
In later years, Jacobs faced health challenges. His wife, Joke Silva, publicly shared that he had been living with dementia with Lewy bodies, a progressive neurological condition. Despite earlier false reports of his death that circulated online for years, the family consistently requested privacy and only confirmed his passing when it occurred.
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A Private Farewell After Public Tributes
While the funeral service at This Present House was attended by invited guests and industry figures, the actual burial that followed was private, in accordance with the family’s wishes. The programme of events—beginning with the Night of Tributes and culminating in the Friday service—allowed the public and the entertainment community to express gratitude for Jacobs’ contributions while respecting the family’s need for a quieter final farewell.
The gathering reflected the high regard in which he was held across generations of Nigerian artists. From pioneering actors to contemporary stars, many came to honour a man whose body of work continues to influence the craft of acting in Nigeria and beyond.
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Legacy That Endures
Olu Jacobs leaves behind more than a catalogue of performances. He leaves a standard of excellence and a reminder of the power of storytelling rooted in authenticity and craft. His partnership with Joke Silva also stood as one of the most respected creative marriages in Nigerian entertainment, combining artistic collaboration with a shared commitment to the industry’s growth.
As Nollywood continues to expand globally, the foundation laid by pioneers such as Olu Jacobs remains visible in the professionalism and ambition of today’s filmmakers and actors. His life and career will be studied and celebrated for years to come.
The family has previously asked the public, bloggers and social media users to respect their privacy during this period of mourning. In the spirit of that request, the focus remains on celebrating a life well lived and a legacy that continues to inspire.
May his soul rest in peace.
Chioma Adeyemi is an entertainment and music writer at Naijapiz. She covers Entertainment, Music, Videos.
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