President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow over the death of legendary Nollywood actor and film icon Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, widely known as Olu Jacobs, who passed away at the age of 84.

After completing his training at London’s prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, Olu Jacobs established a successful career in British television and international cinema before returning to Nigeria to help shape the foundation of the country's modern film industry. Throughout his career, he earned numerous prestigious awards and honours, including the national award of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).

In an official statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu paid tribute to the late actor, describing him as a towering figure whose career crossed international boundaries in theatre, television, and film. The president highlighted Jacobs' pivotal role in professionalising and developing Nigeria's entertainment sector, noting that his exceptional talent, discipline, and dedication have inspired countless actors and filmmakers.

Tinubu also commended the veteran actor's remarkable gift for bringing profound depth, dignity, and authenticity to every role, which earned him widespread admiration both in Nigeria and internationally.

Reflecting on the monumental loss, the president noted that Jacobs was a giant of the creative industry whose legacy will continue to resonate with future generations. He emphasized that the nation deeply values the contributions of its creative practitioners to cultural identity, global reputation, and economic growth, with Olu Jacobs serving as a chief architect of that legacy.

Offering prayers for the peaceful repose of the actor's soul, President Tinubu extended his deepest condolences to the Jacobs family—most notably his wife, veteran actress Chief Joke Silva—as well as their children, relatives, colleagues, and the entire global creative community.