Nigeria: Final Curtain for a Legend As Lagos Stood Still for Olu Jacobs, the Titan Who Built Nollywood

What the report says

Lagos paid tribute to veteran actor Olu Jacobs at a funeral service held on Friday, October 2, at This Present House in Lekki, according to This Day, as republished by AllAfrica. Jacobs, whose full name was Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs, died on September 16, 2026, at age 84. The service drew family members, senior Lagos government officials and a large turnout of Nollywood figures, reflecting his long influence on Nigerian film and stage.

The report described the event as the final part of a two-day farewell. A night of tributes and songs had already been held on September 30, before the church service. Jacobs’ widow, actor Joke Silva, attended with their sons and grandson, while dignitaries included the Lagos deputy governor, the state first lady and other public officials. Several entertainment personalities were also present, and singer Darey Art Alade performed during the ceremony.

Beyond the funeral, the article highlighted Jacobs’ career as a key figure in the growth of Nollywood. It traced his path from Kano to theatre training in the United Kingdom, work on British stage and television productions, and later roles in films that helped establish his reputation. The coverage framed his death as the loss of an actor widely seen as one of the industry’s foundational figures, and the funeral as both a public farewell and a celebration of his legacy.