Kaduna International Film Festival (KADIFF) executive director, Israel Audu, has mourned veteran actor Olu Jacobs, describing his death as a significant loss to Nigeria’s creative industry.
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‎Mr Audu, in a state on Wednesday in Kaduna, expressed sadness over the death of the celebrated actor, filmmaker and theatre practitioner, who passed away at the age of 84.
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He described Mr Jacobs as one of the towering figures whose exceptional talent, professionalism and dedication helped shape Nigeria’s film and theatre industry over several decades.
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According to him, Mr Jacobs’ contribution to Nigeria’s creative sector went beyond his memorable performances on stage and screen.
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‎“Olu Jacobs was more than a remarkable actor; he was an institution whose body of work helped define generations and set enduring standards for professionalism in the Nigerian creative industry,” Mr Audu said.
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He noted that Mr Jacobs’ career, spanning theatre, television and film, contributed significantly to the growth and international visibility of Nigeria’s screen industry.
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Mr Audu also acknowledged the actor’s role in nurturing creative talent and contributing to the industry’s professional development.
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‎He said Mr Jacobs’ influence would continue to resonate among actors, filmmakers, theatre practitioners, festival organisers and young creatives across the country.
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‎“Those of us working to advance film and culture through platforms such as KADIFF recognise the immense contributions of pioneers like Olu Jacobs.
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‎“His journey reminds us of the power of excellence, discipline and commitment to the creative arts, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations,” he said.
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Mr Audu said Mr Jacobs’ death had created a significant void in Nigeria’s creative and cultural community.
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‎He commiserated with Mr Jacobs’ wife, Joke Silva, his children and the entire Jacobs family, as well as his colleagues, friends and admirers.
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‎He also extended his condolences to the Nigerian film and theatre community, describing the deceased as a cultural icon whose contributions would remain an important part of the nation’s artistic heritage.
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His son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced the death in a statement on Wednesday. In the statement, the family expressed gratitude for the actor’s life and appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect the family’s privacy during their bereavement.

(NAN)