Veteran actor and film executive Olu Jacobs, celebrated for his decades-long contribution to Nigerian theatre, television and film, has died at 84, his family has announced.

Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.

His death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a statement shared on Instagram on Wednesday.

The family described the celebrated actor as “The Lion of Lufodo” while announcing his passing and appealing to the public, particularly bloggers and social media influencers, to respect the family’s privacy during the period of mourning.

“It is with gratitude to God for a life well lived and fought, that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father, grandfather and uncle. The Lion of Lufodo.

“We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time,” the statement read.

Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most recognised veteran actors, with a career spanning theatre, television and film. Over several decades, he became a respected figure in Nigeria’s entertainment industry and played prominent roles that helped shape the country’s modern film and television landscape.

Born in Nigeria, Jacobs trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, England. He began his professional acting career in Britain, working with repertoire theatres and appearing in British television productions and international films.

After returning to Nigeria, he established himself as one of the country’s leading actors, becoming a familiar face across Nigerian television and cinema and later a prominent figure in Nollywood.

His performances earned him several major industry honours.

In 2007, Jacobs won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. He was also honoured with the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and received the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.

In recognition of his contribution to the arts and national life, he was conferred with the Nigerian national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.

Beyond his work on screen, Jacobs was also involved in Nigeria’s film industry as an executive and mentor to younger performers.

He was married to fellow veteran actress Joke Silva, with whom he had children and built one of Nigeria’s most prominent celebrity families.

Jacobs’ death marks the loss of one of the enduring figures of Nigerian entertainment, whose career bridged British theatre and television with Nigeria’s rapidly evolving film industry.

The family has not disclosed further details about the circumstances of his death or funeral arrangements.