Nollywood legend Olu Jacobs laid to rest in Lagos as family, colleagues and dignitaries bid final farewell

The curtain has finally fallen on one of Nigeria’s most respected actors, Olu Jacobs. The veteran actor was buried on Friday after a funeral service held in the Lekki area of Lagos.

The funeral service was held at This Present House on Freedom Way, Lekki. It was attended by family members, friends, Nollywood stars and government officials.

The event marked the end of days of funeral activities organized in honour of the acclaimed actor who died in September at the age of 84.

Lagos State deputy governor Obafemi Hamzat led government dignitaries to the service. In a post on his X handle, he described Olu Jacobs as an icon of the entertainment industry.

He wrote that he joined family and loved ones to say a final farewell to a true icon of the entertainment industry. He added that his thoughts and prayers remain with the family and prayed for eternal rest for the late actor.

Singer Dare Art Alade performed his popular song Pray for Me at the funeral service. Nollywood stars present at the ceremony included Kate Henshaw, Stan Nze and Ernest Obi.

After the church service, the hearse proceeded to the burial site where his remains were laid to rest.

The burial came after a night of tributes and a service of songs held on Wednesday to celebrate his life and contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry.

Olu Jacobs was born on July 11, 1942. He started his acting career many decades ago. He featured in British theatre and television and international films before becoming one of the defining figures in Nollywood.

He was trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. He appeared in several British television productions including The Goodies, Till Death Us Do Part, Barlow at Large, The Venturers, Angels, The Tomorrow People and The Professionals.

Upon his return to Nigeria, he joined Nollywood and rose to become one of its most iconic figures. He was known for his authoritative roles as traditional rulers, chiefs and father figures.

He married actress Joke Silva in 1989. The couple later co-founded the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.

Olu Jacobs is survived by his wife and children.