Olu Jacobs’ death Monumental loss to Nigeria, says Minister

The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hanatu Musa Musawa, has described the death of veteran Nollywood actor, Olu Jacobs, as a monumental loss to Nigeria and the creative industry.

Jacobs, a legendary actor and cultural icon, died on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at the age of 84, prompting tributes from government and stakeholders in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

In a statement issued by her media aide, Dr Nneka Ikem-Anibeze, Musawa described Jacobs as a national institution whose career spanned more than five decades.

“It is not just an actor; he was a national institution,” the minister said.

She described the late actor as “one of the most important pillars of Nigeria’s entertainment industry and one of Africa’s greatest actors.”

Musawa said Jacobs’ voice, presence and acting craft helped give life to Nigerian stories while contributing to the growth and dignity of the country’s creative industry.

“For over five decades, his voice, his presence and his craft gave life to our stories and gave dignity to our industry,” she said.

The minister also highlighted Jacobs’ contribution to training a new generation of Nigerian creatives through the Lufodo Academy.

According to her, the academy trained hundreds of actors, directors and filmmakers who have gone on to occupy leading positions in Nollywood.

“Through the Lufodo Academy, which has trained hundreds of actors, directors and filmmakers who are now leading Nollywood, and through the countless lives he touched, his legacy will continue to live on stage, on screen and in the hearts of millions of Nigerians,” she said.

Musawa added, “Nigeria has lost a Lion, but his light will never fade.”

She expressed condolences to Jacobs’ wife, veteran actress Dame Joke Silva, his children and other members of the family on behalf of the Federal Government and the creative community.

The family announced Jacobs’ death on Wednesday, describing him as the “Lion of Lufodo” and appealing to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn.