Olu Jacobs has been laid to rest. The final funeral service and interment held in Lagos on Friday. Creative industry stakeholders attended. Government officials attended. Family members attended. The gathering marked the end of a week of tributes. Jacobs died on 16 September 2026 at the age of 84. His family announced the death. His wife, Joke Silva, and son, Olusoji, described him as the “Lion of Lufodo.”
Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. He built a career in British theatre and television before returning to Nigeria. He became a defining figure in Nollywood’s formative years. His commanding voice and regal presence made him a natural choice for kingly roles. He mentored generations of actors through the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts. He was diagnosed with dementia with Lewy bodies in 2021. His health declined in recent years.
The funeral drew figures from across the industry. Actors, directors and producers paid respects. Cultural institutions sent representatives. The service celebrated his life and work. Tributes recalled his discipline and generosity. Speakers described him as a standard for younger actors. The interment followed the service. The family requested privacy. The industry mourned publicly.
Jacobs leaves a legacy that spans over five decades. He appeared in hundreds of productions. He shaped the careers of many actors. His partnership with Joke Silva was both personal and professional. Together they built institutions that outlast them. The Lufodo Academy continues to train performers. His work remains on streaming platforms. New audiences discover him each year.
The cultural significance is clear. Nollywood has lost a founding pillar. The industry rarely honours its icons while they live. Jacobs received recognition in his final years. The tributes after his death are louder. That is a familiar pattern. The industry should reflect on it.
Winners: The Jacobs family, who gain closure. Joke Silva, who shared his life and work. The actors he trained, who carry his legacy. Nollywood, which gained from his talent. Losers: The film industry, which loses a pillar. Fans, who will not see new performances. Younger actors, who lost a mentor. Nigeria, which loses a cultural ambassador.
Bottom Line: Olu Jacobs is buried. The tributes were deserved. The industry should honour its legends earlier. His voice built Nollywood. His absence leaves a silence.