President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, describing him as a “giant” of Nigeria’s creative industry whose enduring legacy will continue to inspire generations.

Olu Jacobs died at the age of 84 on Wednesday.

In a condolence message, President Tinubu described the late thespian as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished actors and a towering figure whose remarkable career spanned theatre, television and film in Nigeria, Britain and other parts of the world.

The President acknowledged Jacobs’ significant contributions to the growth and professionalisation of Nigeria’s entertainment industry, noting that his exceptional talent, discipline and dedication to his craft inspired generations of actors and filmmakers.

Jacobs, who trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, built a successful career in British television and international film before returning to Nigeria, where he became one of the defining figures of the country’s film industry.

He received several major industry honours and awards for his contributions to the performing arts and was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).

President Tinubu further commended the late actor’s ability to bring depth, dignity and authenticity to the characters he portrayed, earning him admiration in Nigeria and beyond.

“He was a giant of the Nigerian creative industry. His passing is a great loss to Nigeria, the African film industry and the global community of lovers of the performing arts. His remarkable body of work will continue to speak to generations yet unborn.

“The nation recognises the enormous contributions of Nigeria’s creative practitioners to the country’s cultural identity, global image and economic development. Olu Jacobs played a big role in creating this identity,” the President said.

Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to the Jacobs family, particularly his wife, veteran actress Chief Joke Silva, their children, relatives, colleagues in the Nigerian film industry and the wider creative community.

President Tinubu prayed for the repose of the soul of the celebrated thespian and for comfort for his family, colleagues and admirers.