Olu Jacobs Was A Titan Of Nigerian Cinema – NFVCB Pay Tribute To Late Veteran

Late Olu Jacobs (1942-2026)

The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has paid tribute to veteran actor Oludotun Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, describing him as a titan of Nigerian and African cinema and theatre.

In a statement shared on its Instagram page, the board noted that for decades, he did not simply act but commanded the stage and screen, setting the gold standard for acting across the continent with his rich voice, impeccable diction, and unmatched gravitas.

The NFVCB further noted that from his early training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London to his foundational role in shaping modern Nigerian theatre and Nollywood, his career was a masterclass in artistic excellence.

The board recognised that his contributions went beyond individual performances, as he elevated the cultural prestige of Nigerian film and portrayed royalty with unmatched dignity.

The NFVCB also bade the actor goodnight, describing him as an incomparable legend and a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic, praying that his gentle soul rests in perfect peace.

The statement read:
"The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) joins millions worldwide, to mourn the passing of a titan of Nigerian and African cinema and theatre, Oludotun Jacobs, MFR. For decades, 'Uncle Olu' as he is fondly called by younger colleagues, did not simply act; he commanded the stage and screen. His rich, booming voice, impeccable diction, and unmatched gravitas set the gold standard for acting across the continent."

"From his early training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) in London and his appearances on international stages, to his foundational role in shaping the identity of modern Nigerian theatre and Nollywood, his career was a masterclass in artistic excellence."

"As a regulatory body, we recognize that his contributions went far beyond individual performances. He elevated the cultural prestige of Nigerian film, proving to the world that our stories deserve the grandest stages. He portrayed royalty with unmatched dignity, and left an indelible mark on generations of filmmakers, actors, and audiences alike."

"Although, the 'Lion of Lufodo' has completed his final act, his footprints are permanently etched into the history of global cinema and theatre. For us at the @nfvcb, we say goodnight to an incomparable LEGEND and a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace."

The Nigerian Voice recalls that the legendary actor, widely regarded as one of the godfathers of Nollywood, died at the age of 84. His son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced the news on Instagram on Wednesday, stating that the family announced his passing with gratitude to God for a life well lived and fought.

The statement described him as a dear husband, father, grandfather, and uncle, referring to him as "The Lion of Lufodo." It confirmed that he lived from July 11, 1942, to September 16, 2026, and urged bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family's privacy during this difficult time.