Nollywood stars, family members, filmmakers and friends gathered in Lagos on Wednesday night to celebrate the life and legacy of veteran actor Olu Jacobs at an emotional Night of Tributes and Service of Songs.
The event, held at Glover Memorial Hall on Lagos Island, brought together several generations of Nigeria’s entertainment industry to honour the legendary actor, who died on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84.
Among those who attended were Richard Mofe-Damijo, Funke Akindele, Sola Sobowale, Jide Kosoko, Adebayo Salami, Kate Henshaw, Hilda Dokubo, Desmond Elliot, Norbert Young, Ejike Asiegbu, Keppy Ekpenyong and other prominent figures in Nollywood...READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
Jacobs’ widow, veteran actress Joke Silva, was also present alongside their sons, Gbenga and Soji.
The evening featured emotional tributes, musical performances, Bible readings and personal recollections from colleagues who worked with the late actor throughout his remarkable career.
His son Soji shared personal memories of his father, describing him as a man whose enormous public reputation never overshadowed his role as a loving and present father.
Gbenga also paid tribute to his father, recalling the special bond they shared and remembering him as a man who knew how to balance his demanding career with family life.
Veteran actress Sola Sobowale became emotional while speaking about Jacobs’ influence on her career. She credited him with personally helping to train and shape her as an actress, describing his guidance and wisdom as instrumental to her development.
Richard Mofe-Damijo also reflected on the lessons he learned from Jacobs, particularly his emphasis on professionalism, discipline and the importance of respecting every role and every line in a production.
Other colleagues remembered Jacobs for his generosity, humility, mentorship and willingness to support younger talents within the industry.
A candlelight procession also formed part of the ceremony as mourners remembered the actor whose career spanned more than five decades across theatre, television and film.
Known affectionately as the Lion of Lufodo, Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before building an impressive career in British theatre and television. He later returned to Nigeria, where he became one of the most recognisable and influential figures in the country’s entertainment industry.
His death marked the end of an era for many Nigerian actors and filmmakers who regarded him not only as a screen legend but also as a mentor and father figure.
The Night of Tributes forms part of the funeral arrangements for the celebrated actor, with his final funeral service scheduled to take place in Lagos on Friday, October 2.
As Nollywood continues to mourn his passing, the tributes have highlighted the lasting impact Olu Jacobs had on Nigerian theatre, television, film and the generations of performers who followed in his footsteps.
