Nigeria: Death of Olu Jacobs, Nollywood icon

Nigerian filmmaker and actor Oludotun Jacobs, a leading figure in Nollywood, the prolific Nigerian film industry, has died at the age of 84, his family announced Wednesday in a message posted on Instagram.

Olu Jacobs, trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, has influenced generations of Nigerians during his career which spanned more than five decades in theatre, television and film.

His son, Olusoji Jacobs, said he had "led a full life".

"He was a giant of the Nigerian creative industry," commented Nigerian President Bola Tinubu in a statement.

"His passing is a tremendous loss for Nigeria, the African film industry and the global community of performing arts enthusiasts," the head of state added.

"Nigeria has lost far more than a great actor. We have lost an institution, a cultural icon, and one of the finest ambassadors of our creative spirit," wrote former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in a message posted on X.

Nicknamed the "Lion of Lufodo", Olu Jacobs started in British television shows and series in the 1970s, then participated in numerous Nigerian productions for which he won several awards.

In 2011, he received the national distinction of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (MFR), as well as the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards 2013, in recognition of his contribution to the industry.

His wife, Joke Silva, an actress and director, announced in 2021 that he was suffering from Lewy body dementia, a progressive neurodegenerative disease.

Together, the couple had created a production company and a training school for young actors 40 years ago.