Tributes have continued to pour in from across Nigeria following the death of veteran actor Olu Jacobs at the age of 84.
His son, Olusoji, announced his death in an Instagram post on Wednesday, although the cause of death was not disclosed.
President Bola Tinubu and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar were among prominent Nigerians who paid tribute to the late actor.
Tinubu described Jacobs as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished thespians and a towering figure whose career spanned theatre, television and film globally.
The president also acknowledged Jacobs’ contributions to the growth and professionalisation of Nigeria’s entertainment industry, noting that he inspired generations of actors and filmmakers through his talent, discipline and commitment to his craft.
Tinubu further praised his ability to bring depth, dignity and authenticity to his roles, earning him admiration 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 statement reads.
“The nation recognises the enormous contributions of Nigeria’s creative practitioners to the country’s cultural identity, global image and economic development. Olu Jacobs played a big role in creating this identity.”
The president condoled with Jacobs’ family, particularly his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, their children, relatives, colleagues in the Nigerian film industry and the wider creative community.
Atiku, in a statement shared on his X handle, described Jacobs as “an institution, a cultural icon and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit”.
“I am profoundly saddened by the passing of Olu Jacobs at the age of 84,” Atiku said.
“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 also noted that Jacobs had been a familiar presence in Nigerian homes for generations, adding that “long before Nollywood became a global phenomenon, Olu Jacobs was already carrying the Nigerian name with distinction”.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo also mourned the actor, describing him as “a consummate actor; quintessential professional; god of the screen and legend of the stage; role model and perfect gentleman”.
Meanwhile, Nollywood actor Emeka Ike was overcome with emotion after learning of Jacobs’ death.
A video circulating on social media showed Ike speaking through tears.
“I did not see him till he died,” he said.
Several other prominent Nigerians and celebrities also paid tribute to the late actor.
William Uchemba described Jacobs’ life as “a life well spent”, while Mr Macaroni called him “a Legend, Icon and an absolute Inspiration to us all!”
Actress Ini Edo wrote, “Rest well Uncle! You will forever be in our hearts”.
Content creator Broda Shaggi wrote, “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”.
Other entertainers, including Femi Adebayo, Funke Akindele, Ricky Jumbo, Ben Murray-Bruce and Reno Omokri, also shared tributes in honour of the late actor.