Atiku, Keyamo, Stars Lead National Tributes for Late Olu Jacobs

Tributes have been pouring in for the late veteran actor, Olu Jacobs, who passed away at 84 years old. Among those expressing their grief are former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and numerous figures from Nigeria's entertainment sector. Olusoji, the son of the revered actor, confirmed his father's demise via an Instagram post on Wednesday, referring to him fondly as “The Lion of Lufodo.”

In a statement shared on his official X handle on Wednesday, Atiku Abubakar expressed his deep sorrow, calling Jacobs “an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit.” The former Vice President conveyed his profound sadness at the news of Olu Jacobs' death at 84, stating, “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 further noted how Jacobs was a constant and powerful presence for many Nigerian families across generations. Atiku highlighted the actor's distinct voice, the grace he brought to every character, and his immense talent, which made him an exceptional artist who resonated deeply within the nation's collective consciousness. He emphasized Jacobs' role in promoting Nigeria's name globally long before Nollywood gained international recognition, acknowledging that his decades of commitment to his profession were instrumental in establishing the foundation for an entire industry. “He gave life to our stories, dignity to our culture and inspiration to countless younger actors who followed the path he helped to clear,” Atiku added.

Atiku extended his condolences to Jacobs' wife, renowned actress Joke Silva, their children, and the broader entertainment fraternity. “My heart goes especially to his beloved wife and lifelong partner, Joke Silva, their children and the entire Jacobs family. I pray that the memories of the beautiful life they shared with him will bring them strength through this painful season,” he remarked. He concluded by asserting that “Olu Jacobs gave Nigeria his talent, his voice and a lifetime of excellence. Nigeria will remember him with pride, affection and profound gratitude. May God grant his soul eternal rest and comfort his family in this hour of grief.”

Minister Festus Keyamo also shared his tribute on X, characterizing Jacobs as a thoroughly professional and consummate actor. Keyamo's post read, “Consummate actor; quintessential professional; god of the screen and legend of the stage; role model and perfect gentleman. Olu Jacobs. Rest in peace.”

Many other actors and entertainers took to social media platforms to honour the departed icon. Content creator Broda Shaggi offered, “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.” William Uchemba, an actor and content creator, stated, “A life well spent, Rest Well Legend.” Isbae U simply wrote, “Rest well Legend ,” while Mr Macaroni hailed Jacobs as a “Legend, Icon and an absolute Inspiration to us all!” Actress Ini Edo also joined in the tributes, penning, “Rest well Uncle! You will forever be in our hearts.”

Olu Jacobs stood as one of Nigeria's most distinguished veteran actors, boasting a career that encompassed theatre, television, and film. Beyond his acting prowess, he was also a film executive, co-founding the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts with his wife, Joke Silva. Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs honed his craft at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. His early career saw him feature in various British television shows and international movies before he rose to prominence within Nigeria's burgeoning film industry. His significant contributions were recognized with the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2013, followed by the Africa Movie Academy Awards’ Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. In 2011, he was also bestowed with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic.