The Nigerian entertainment industry came together on Wednesday to honour the late veteran actor, Olu Jacobs, at a Night of Tributes and Service of Songs held in Lagos. Jacobs, popularly known as the “Lion of Lufodo,” died on September 16 at the age of 84. The event, which took place at Glover Memorial Hall, Marina, Lagos Island, attracted several prominent figures in the industry.
The ceremony featured a candlelight procession, Bible readings, performances, personal tributes, and recollections from colleagues who worked with Jacobs across different stages of his career. His widow, veteran actress Joke Silva, attended the ceremony alongside their sons, Gbenga and Olusoji, popularly known as Soji. The evening was a celebration of Jacobs’ life, career, and contribution to Nigerian theatre, television, and film.
Soji Jacobs reflected on his relationship with his father, describing him as magnetic and genuine. He added that his father was deliberate about separating his public life from his family life and fiercely protected their privacy. Soji also shared that despite his father’s enormous public profile, he was first and foremost a father to his family.
Veteran actor Norbert Young recalled working with Jacobs on the television series The Third Eye, describing him as a disciplined professional whose advice and experience helped shape his career. Young said that listening to Jacobs during their time on The Third Eye influenced his development as an actor. Other colleagues, including Hilda Dokubo and Kate Henshaw, also shared their experiences working with Jacobs.
Dokubo and Henshaw highlighted Jacobs’ caring nature and his willingness to support colleagues on set. Dokubo recalled how Jacobs helped her overcome her nervousness when she first worked with him, while Henshaw remembered his preparedness and generosity during productions. Sola Sobowale also recounted how Jacobs encouraged her early in her career by publicly praising her acting ability.
Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, recalled a lesson Jacobs taught him about the importance of every actor and every line in a production. The tributes were interspersed with performances, including a soulful rendition by singer Yinka Davies, as guests reflected on Jacobs’ decades-long career. Jacobs’ career spanned more than five decades across theatre, television, and film.
The Night of Tributes is the first major public event in the funeral programme announced by his family. The funeral service is scheduled for Friday, October 2, at 10:00 a.m. at This Present House, Freedom Way, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, with shades of green as the dress code. A private burial is expected to follow.
Key points
- Olu Jacobs died on September 16 at the age of 84.
- The Night of Tributes was attended by several prominent figures in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
- Jacobs’ career spanned more than five decades across theatre, television, and film.
