Tributes have continued to pour in for veteran Nigerian actor Olu Jacobs, with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo and several entertainers honouring his contributions to the country’s creative industry.

His death was announced by his son, Olusoji, in an Instagram post on Wednesday, where he referred to the veteran actor as “The Lion of Lufodo.”

According to Punch, Atiku, in a statement shared on his X account, described Jacobs as a major figure in Nigeria’s cultural history, noting that his career helped shape the country’s entertainment industry and inspired generations of actors.

“He gave life to our stories, dignity to our culture and inspiration to countless younger actors who followed the path he helped to clear,” he said.

The former vice president also expressed sympathy to Jacobs’ wife, actress Joke Silva, their children and other members of the family, saying the late actor’s legacy would remain part of Nigeria’s collective memory.

Keyamo also joined the tributes, describing Jacobs as a consummate actor, professional and role model whose career spanned both the stage and screen.

Other entertainers, including Broda Shaggi, William Uchemba, Isbae U, Mr Macaroni and Ini Edo, took to social media to remember the actor and extend condolences to his family.

Jacobs, born on July 11, 1942, trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before appearing in British television productions and international films. He later became one of the most recognisable figures in Nigeria’s film and theatre industry.

Alongside Joke Silva, he was associated with the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts. His honours included the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, the 2016 Africa Movie Academy Awards Lifetime Achievement Award and the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011.