The family of the late Olu Jacobs has released the official schedule for the veteran Nollywood actor’s burial ceremonies, confirming a private farewell for one of African cinema’s most celebrated figures.
Jacobs, whose full name was Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs MFR, died on September 16, 2026, aged 84, following a prolonged battle with dementia with Lewy bodies, a condition his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, had spoken about publicly as far back as 2021.
The family posted the funeral programme on Facebook on September 23, confirming the arrangements.
When will Olu Jacobs be buried?
The send-off begins with a public Night of Tributes on Wednesday, September 30, at Glover Memorial Hall, 19 Marina Road, Lagos Island, starting at 4 pm. Attendees are expected to dress in shades of blue, and the evening is anticipated to draw a large gathering of Nollywood stars, broadcast personalities, and fans who wish to pay their respects to the actor.
The funeral service follows on Friday, October 2, at 10 am at This Present House, Freedom Way, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos. Guests have been asked to dress in shades of grey. The burial itself will be a private ceremony, limited to family and close associates.
Jacobs leaves behind his wife, Joke Silva, whom he married in 1989, and three children: Olusoji, Olugbenga and Dayo.
Born on July 11, 1942, he built a career spanning more than five decades, beginning with appearances on British television in productions including The Professionals and The Goodies, before becoming one of the most recognisable faces of Nollywood’s golden era.
Together with Joke Silva, he co-founded the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, an institution dedicated to training the next generation of African storytellers.
His family described him as “The Lion of Lufodo,” honouring both his legacy and his stature within the industry. In their announcement of his passing, they said his was a life “well lived and fought.”
The family also appealed to the public, bloggers, and social media influencers to respect their privacy during the mourning period.
See the poster below:
Netizens weigh in
Fans and followers have reacted warmly to the burial announcement.
Zim Chi Ka Chim wrote:
“The burial day will be something else. Top politicians and celebrities will come in large numbers. Fashion show will be hot.”
Akunna Ahaneku commented:
“I will miss his voice and smile.”
Gaël Grâce added:
“The legend has gone ooh, rest in peace my dear legend.”
