Veteran Nollywood actor Kanayo O. Kanayo has paid a moving tribute to the legendary actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, following the icon’s passing at the age of 84.
​Speaking in a broadcast interview released on Thursday, September 17, 2026, Kanayo reflected on the towering legacy of the late actor, describing him as a demigod of the craft whose discipline, punctuality, and commitment fundamentally shaped the modern Nigerian film industry.
​The tribute comes after the Jacobs family officially announced his death on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, in a statement issued from Lagos. The late icon was lauded as “The Lion of Lufodo” by his family and surviving wife, veteran actress Joke Silva.
​During the interview, Kanayo recalled working alongside Jacobs over their decades-long careers, noting that the late star was a benchmark for professionalism on set.
​”For those of us who were privileged to be on set with him, he was just that consummate actor who played his part well, and every scene came with a fresh interpretation,” Kanayo stated. “You wouldn’t tell an Olu Jacobs that call time is 9:00 AM and he’s not there by 8:30 AM.”
​Kanayo highlighted Jacobs’ eagerness to mentor up-and-coming talent, recalling how the veteran actor would patiently guide younger colleagues on set to improve their delivery and stage presence.
​”He was always willing to teach the younger ones how to be better actors,” Kanayo said. “And God save you if you were on set with Mr. Olu Jacobs and you weren’t proving yourself—he expected excellence.”
​Recalling a notable project filmed in Benin City, Edo State, produced by filmmaker Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, Kanayo reminisced about playing a prince alongside Jacobs, who portrayed his father, the King.
​”I would have wished that he stayed longer, but he played his part exceptionally well, and it is time the Lord called him home,” Kanayo added, describing the experience as one of the defining moments of his early acting career.
​Kanayo joins a wave of creative leaders and filmmakers paying homage to the late icon across the country. Executive media producer Mo Abudu, CEO of EbonyLife Group, also released a statement paying tribute to Jacobs’ international and domestic legacy:
​”From stage to Nigerian cinema and onto international screens, he brought a rare depth, dignity, and humanity to every role he inhabited,” Abudu said. “His contribution to our industry and global storytelling will never be forgotten.”
​Funeral arrangements and official public memorial service dates are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
