Former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has expressed sadness over the death of veteran actor, Chief Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, describing his passing as the end of an extraordinary chapter in Nigerian theatre, television and film.
In a condolence message issued in Lagos on Friday, Mohammed said Nigeria has lost not just an accomplished actor but a cultural icon whose talent and dignity helped project the country’s creative excellence to the world.
“For more than five decades, Olu Jacobs brought intelligence, depth and authenticity to every role, leaving an imprint on generations of Nigerians and audiences abroad. His journey, from British stage and television to Nollywood, showed that Nigerian artistes could compete with the best anywhere.
“He was a bridge between the old tradition of Nigerian theatre and the modern film industry. Beyond his acting, he was deeply committed to the growth of the creative sector, through his work and his partnership with his wife, Joke Silva. By training young performers, he helped build institutions and inspire a new generation,” the ex-minister said.
Mohammed said Olu Jacobs’ career showed how the arts can serve as a powerful instrument of cultural diplomacy and national image-building, adding: “He understood that culture is one of Nigeria’s greatest assets. Every time he stepped onto a stage or screen, he carried something of the Nigerian story with him, a legacy that will outlast any single role or award.’’
The former information minister commiserated with Joke Silva, the Jacobs family, the Nigerian creative community and Olu Jacobs’ admirers at home and abroad.
“The curtain has fallen on the earthly performance of this great thespian, but his legacy will endure. May God grant his soul eternal rest and give his family strength to bear this loss,” he said.