Nollywood stars, colleagues, family members and associates gathered at Glover Memorial Hall, Lagos Island, on Wednesday night, September 30, 2026, to honour veteran actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, and celebrate his extraordinary contribution to Nigerian theatre and cinema.
The Night of Tributes brought together prominent actors, filmmakers and other figures from the creative industry, many of whom reflected on Jacobs’ professionalism, humility, mentorship and influence on generations of performers.
Richard Mofe-Damijo described Jacobs as a father figure whose example helped shape the careers of many actors, including himself.
According to Mofe-Damijo, Jacobs’ decision to return to Nigeria and invest his experience and talent in the local industry helped create opportunities for younger performers.
“Uncle Olu was more than a colleague; he was a father figure to many of us. His professionalism, discipline and commitment to excellence set a standard we continue to aspire to,” he said.
Mofe-Damijo added that Jacobs’ legacy extended beyond the films and performances that made him famous.
Sola Sobowale also paid tribute to Jacobs, describing him as a remarkable actor whose talent was matched by his kindness and humility.
“Uncle Olu was a rare gift to Nigerian cinema, and we are blessed to have witnessed his greatness,” Sobowale said.
She recalled his dignity and professionalism, adding that his influence would continue through the stories he told and the performers he inspired.
Segun Arinze described Jacobs as one of the defining figures in Nigerian acting and a benchmark for aspiring performers.
“He was one of the people who showed us what it truly means to be an actor,” Arinze said.
He noted that Jacobs’ dedication to his craft and ability to bring characters to life distinguished his career, adding that his influence on Nigerian entertainment would endure.
Fred Amata similarly described Jacobs as a master of his craft whose professionalism brought dignity and excellence to acting.
The tributes reflected the breadth of Jacobs’ influence, from his performances on stage and screen to his role in mentoring younger talents and helping to raise professional standards within the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Born on July 11, 1942, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before establishing an international career across theatre, television and film.
He later returned to Nigeria, where he became one of the country’s most respected actors and a prominent figure in the development of modern Nigerian entertainment.
Throughout his career, Jacobs received several major recognitions, including the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic, the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role and the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards.
His career spanned more than five decades and included performances that established him as one of the most recognisable figures in African cinema.
Beyond his acting achievements, colleagues remembered Jacobs for his contribution to the professional development of the industry and his willingness to inspire younger performers.
The Night of Tributes therefore served not only as a farewell but also as a celebration of a career that left a powerful mark on Nigerian theatre and film.
As colleagues, friends and admirers gathered to remember him, the event underscored the enduring respect for Jacobs and the generations of performers influenced by his work.
The funeral service is scheduled for Friday, October 2, 2026, at This Present House, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos.
