The United States Mission in Nigeria has joined Nigerians and members of the global creative community in mourning veteran actor Olu Jacobs, describing him as a legendary figure whose career crossed international borders and generations.
In a tribute shared on its official X account on September 21, 2026, the Mission reflected on Jacobs’ contribution to international cinema and Nigerian film.
“From international cinema, including American productions, to becoming one of the defining voices of Nigerian film, his extraordinary talent crossed borders and generations,” the Mission wrote.
The diplomatic mission also highlighted Jacobs’ influence on younger generations of creatives, saying his legacy would endure through the stories he told and the artists he inspired.
“His legacy lives on in the stories he told and the generations of artists he inspired,” it added.
The Mission concluded its tribute with a final message: “Rest in peace, Olu Jacobs.”
Jacobs died at the age of 84, with his family announcing his death on September 16, 2026.
Born in Kano in 1942, Jacobs developed a career spanning theatre, television and film, working in Britain and the United States before becoming one of the most recognisable figures in Nigerian cinema.
His international screen credits included films such as The Dogs of War, Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend and Pirates. He later became a major presence in Nollywood, appearing in more than 100 productions.
Jacobs also co-founded the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts with his wife, actress Joke Silva, contributing to the development and training of performers in Nigeria.
His career earned him several honours, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007 and the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.
The tribute from the US Mission adds to the widespread mourning for Jacobs, whose work connected Nigerian entertainment with audiences across Africa and internationally.
