A night of remembrance drew Nollywood stars, colleagues and family to Glover Memorial Hall on October 1, 2026, as the industry paid tribute to veteran actor Olu Jacobs. The event, described by organisers as a celebration of craft and mentorship, offered a steady stream of recollections about Jacobs’ professionalism and the example he set for generations of performers.
Richard Mofe-Damijo spoke of Jacobs as a father figure whose return to Nigeria and steady commitment to excellence opened paths for younger actors. Sola Sobowale emphasised his warmth and humility alongside his on-screen presence, while Segun Arinze and Fred Amata highlighted the standards Jacobs set and the dignity he brought to the profession. Attendees repeatedly framed Jacobs’ work as both an artistic benchmark and a lesson in conduct for the industry.
Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, born July 11, 1942, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before building a career that crossed theatre, television and film. His return to Nigeria and long involvement in local productions won recognitions including a national honour, an Africa Movie Academy Award and an Industry Merit award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards. Speakers at the night of tributes credited him with helping to professionalise acting in Nigeria and for mentoring many rising talents.
Family and colleagues noted practical ways Jacobs’ influence continues, from casting choices to on-set discipline and the careers of actors who credit him as a guide. The programme closed with a reminder of immediate arrangements: a funeral service scheduled for October 2, 2026, at This Present House in Lekki Phase 1, Lagos. Organisers asked that tributes be directed through family channels and the industry’s established announcements.
In summary, the evening at Glover Memorial Hall functioned as both farewell and public record of a long career. Those who spoke did not dwell on a single role but on a pattern of mentorship, craft and steadiness that attendees said will remain a touchstone for Nollywood going forward. The tone was of gratitude and a collective resolve to carry Jacobs’ standards into future work.
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