Kaduna: Kaduna International Film Festival (KADIFF) Executive Director, Mr Israel Audu, has mourned veteran actor Olu Jacobs, describing his death as a significant loss to Nigeria’s creative industry. Audu expressed sadness over the death of the celebrated actor, filmmaker, and theatre practitioner, who passed away at the age of 84.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Audu in a statement on Wednesday in Kaduna, described Jacobs as one of the towering figures whose exceptional talent, professionalism, and dedication helped shape Nigeria’s film and theatre industry over several decades. He highlighted that Jacobs’ contribution to the development of Nigeria’s creative sector went beyond his memorable performances on stage and screen.
“Olu Jacobs was more than a remarkable actor; he was an institution whose body of work helped define generations and set enduring standards for professionalism in the Nigerian creative industry,” Audu said. He noted that Jacobs’ career, spanning theatre, television, and film, contributed significantly to the growth and international visibility of Nigeria’s screen industry.
Audu also acknowledged the veteran actor’s role in nurturing creative talents and contributing to the professional development of the industry. He said Jacobs’ influence would continue to resonate among actors, filmmakers, theatre practitioners, festival organisers, and young creatives across the country.
“Those of us working to advance film and culture through platforms such as KADIFF recognise the immense contributions of pioneers like Olu Jacobs. His journey reminds us of the power of excellence, discipline, and commitment to the creative arts, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations,” he said.
Audu stated that the death of Jacobs had created a significant void in Nigeria’s creative and cultural community. He commiserated with Jacobs’ wife, Chief Mrs Joke Silva, his children, and the entire Jacobs family, as well as his colleagues, friends, and admirers. He also extended his condolences to the Nigerian film and theatre community, describing the deceased as a cultural icon whose contributions would remain an important part of the nation’s artistic heritage.
Audu prayed God to grant the family and loved ones the fortitude to bear the loss and grant the departed eternal rest. The death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, in a statement shared on Instagram on Wednesday, Sept. 16, in which the family expressed gratitude for the actor’s life. He appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family’s privacy at the time of their bereavement.