Olu Jacobs Laid To Rest As Nollywood, Dignitaries Pay Final Tribute

By Samuel Egbewole 

Family members, colleagues, friends and prominent figures from the entertainment industry on Friday, Oct. 2, 2026, gathered in Lagos to celebrate the life and legacy of veteran actor Olu Jacobs at his funeral service.

The service, held at This Present House, Lekki Phase I, brought together members of the Nigerian entertainment community and other dignitaries who came to honour the late thespian, who died on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84.

The ceremony featured tributes, prayers and reflections on Jacobs’ remarkable career and his contributions to Nigerian theatre, television and film.

Entertainment entrepreneur and performer Dare Art Alade rendered his hit song, Pray for Me, which featured Jacobs and his wife, Joke Silva, in its music video.

As part of the funeral activities, Olugbenga Jacobs, one of the deceased’s sons, presented his father’s biography, offering guests an account of the life and career of the celebrated actor.

The Head Pastor of the church, Tony Rapu, delivered a sermon reflecting on Jacobs’ life, career and impact on the entertainment industry.

Pastors at the service also offered prayers for the bereaved family, asking God to grant them comfort and strength during the period of mourning.

Another son of the deceased, Olusoji Jacobs, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to guests, colleagues, friends and well-wishers for their presence and support.

Among the dignitaries at the service were the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Obafemi Hamzat; the First Lady of Lagos State, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; and former Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, among others.

Jacobs, popularly known as “The Lion of Lufodo,” built a career spanning more than five decades across theatre, television and film, establishing himself as one of Nigeria’s notable actors.

He was married to fellow actress Joke Silva, with whom he co-founded the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.

The funeral service followed a Night of Tributes held on Wednesday at Glover Memorial Hall, Lagos Island, where colleagues, friends and admirers gathered to celebrate Jacobs’ enduring contributions to Nigerian entertainment.