Lagos hosts Emotional Night of Tributes for Olu Jacobs

Nollywood stars, colleagues and admirers of the late veteran actor Olu Jacobs have gathered in Lagos for a Night of Tributes celebrating his remarkable life and contribution to Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

The emotional ceremony is taking place at the Glover Memorial Hall, where leading figures from the Nigerian film industry have assembled ahead of Jacobs’ final funeral rites.

Among those who attended the Service of Songs were Funke Akindele, Jide Kosoko, Adebayo Salami, Saka, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Sola Sobowale, Toyosi Adesanya and Desmond Elliot, alongside several other actors and actresses.

Jacobs’ widow and fellow veteran actress, Joke Silva, was also present as friends and colleagues gathered to remember the celebrated actor and share memories of his life and career.

The Night of Tributes forms part of the funeral arrangements announced by Jacobs’ family following his death on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84.

The main funeral service is scheduled for October 2 at This Present House in Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, after which a private burial will be held.

Jacobs enjoyed a career spanning more than five decades across theatre, television and film. He became one of Nigeria’s most recognisable actors, celebrated for his commanding voice, versatility and ability to bring complex characters to life.

His contributions to the arts earned him several honours, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role, the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).

As colleagues and loved ones gathered in Lagos, the tribute served as a reflection on a career that left a lasting mark on Nigerian cinema and theatre.