Minister mourns Olu Jacobs, says ‘Nigeria has lost a lion’

Minister Hannatu Musawa mourned the death of celebrated Nollywood actor Olu Jacobs, describing his passing as a monumental loss for Nigeria and the country's creative industry. The veteran actor, known as Olu Jacobs, died at the age of 84 on Wednesday. Musawa, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, hailed Jacobs as a national institution and one of Nigeria's greatest actors, praising his contributions that spanned over five decades.

The minister highlighted Jacobs' role in developing talents through the Lufodo Academy, which he founded with his wife, actress Joke Silva. The academy trained hundreds of actors, directors, and filmmakers who have since become leading figures in Nollywood. Musawa stated, "Through the Lufodo Academy, which has trained hundreds of actors, directors and filmmakers who are now leading Nollywood, and the countless lives he touched, his legacy will continue to live on stage, on screen and in the hearts of millions of Nigerians."

Jacob's illustrious career extended to stage and screen performances in Nigeria and abroad. He was trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before becoming a prominent figure in British television and theatre productions. Jacobs' influence spanned Nollywood, with a prolific filmography that included 20 notable films.

He also co-founded the Lufodo Group, which engaged in film production and performing arts education. Jacobs received the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic for his contributions to the arts.

The Federal Government and the creative community expressed condolences to Jacobs' family, colleagues, friends, and the millions of Nigerians who enjoyed his work over the years.