Sola Sobowale Reveals How Olu Jacobs Shaped Her Acting Career

Veteran Nigerian actress Sola Sobowale has paid an emotional tribute to late actor Olu Jacobs, describing him as a knowledgeable, wise and selfless man who played a significant role in shaping her acting career.

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Sobowale spoke on Wednesday during a Night of Tribute held in honour of the late screen veteran at Glover Memorial Hall in Lagos.

Olu Jacobs died on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84.

Reflecting on her career in the Nigerian film industry, Sobowale said Jacobs was among the people who helped develop her skills as an actress.

She noted that while audiences often celebrate her performances, many may not know the veteran actor who played an important role in nurturing her talent.

Sobowale recalled how Jacobs would correct and advise her whenever she brought problems to him.

She said his familiar “No, no, no” gesture was often a way of cautioning and guiding her.

According to the actress, Jacobs recognised her intelligence and potential and used his experience to help her improve.

“When people see Sola Sobowale, they say she is a fantastic actor, but somebody trained me and Baba Olu Jacobs was that person who trained me,” she said.

She described the late actor as a “man of knowledge, wisdom and a selfless man.”

Sobowale’s tribute highlighted the influence Jacobs had on her development as an actress and the respect she held for him as a mentor.

Her account adds to the tributes from colleagues, friends and admirers who have continued to remember Jacobs for his contribution to Nigeria’s theatre, television and film industries.

The Night of Tribute in Lagos was part of activities leading to the funeral of the veteran actor, whose career spanned several decades.

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Sobowale’s remarks underscored the personal impact Jacobs had on fellow actors, beyond his performances on stage and screen.