The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has mourned veteran Nollywood actor and cultural icon, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, who died on Wednesday at the age of 84.

Musawa described the actor’s death as a monumental loss to Nigeria and the country’s creative industry, noting that his contribution to the arts spanned more than five decades.

In a statement issued by her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Nneka Anibeze, in Abuja, the minister described Jacobs as a national institution and one of the pillars of Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

She said his voice, presence and acting craft helped give life to Nigerian stories while contributing to the dignity and growth of the country’s creative sector.

Musawa also highlighted Jacobs’ contribution to developing new talent through the Lufodo Academy, which he established with his wife and fellow veteran actress, Joke Silva.

According to her, the academy has trained hundreds of actors, directors and filmmakers who have gone on to play significant roles in Nollywood.

She said Jacobs’ influence extended beyond his performances, with the lives he touched and the professionals he mentored forming an important part of his enduring legacy.

“Nigeria has lost a Lion, but his light will never fade,” she said.

Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most prominent theatre, television and film actors, with a career that included work in Nigeria and abroad.

He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before establishing himself in British television and theatre and later becoming a major figure in Nigeria’s developing film industry.

His death has prompted tributes from political leaders, actors and other members of Nigeria’s creative community.