Nollywood gathers in Lagos to honour late actor Olu Jacobs

Nollywood actors, family members and friends gathered in Lagos on Wednesday for a Night of Tributes and Service of Songs in honour of the late veteran actor Olu Jacobs. The event took place at Glover Memorial Hall on Lagos Island and attracted prominent figures including Richard Mofe-Damijo, Sola Sobowale, Funke Akindele, Jide Kosoko, Adebayo Salami, Kate Henshaw, Desmond Elliot and Arts Minister Hannatu Musawa. Jacobs, popularly known as the “Lion of Lufodo”, died on 16 September at the age of 84.

His widow, actress Joke Silva, attended the ceremony with their sons Gbenga and Olusoji, known as Soji. A candlelight procession was held as guests celebrated his life and career. The evening included Bible readings, performances and personal recollections from colleagues who worked with Jacobs in theatre, television and film.

Opening the tributes, Soji Jacobs said that, despite his father’s public profile, he had been first and foremost a father to his family and had protected their privacy. Actor Norbert Young recalled working with Jacobs on The Third Eye and described him as a disciplined professional whose advice helped shape his career. Ahmed Yerima shared a humorous memory of Jacobs’ emotional interpretation of a scene, while Hilda Dokubo and Kate Henshaw remembered his care and willingness to support colleagues.

Sobowale said Jacobs had encouraged her early in her career by praising her acting ability. RMD recalled Jacobs’ lesson that every actor and line in a production mattered. Singer Yinka Davies also performed during the event.

Jacobs’ career lasted more than five decades and included theatre, television and film. He trained at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Art before working in British theatre and television and later returning to Nigeria. His funeral service is scheduled for Friday, 2 October, in Lagos, followed by a private burial.