The United States Consulate General in Lagos has posthumously honoured veteran Nigerian actor Olu Jacobs with a Creative Industry Legend Award in recognition of his contributions to film, theatre and television. Jacobs’ sons, Olugbenga Jacobs and Olusoji Jacobs, received the award on behalf of their family at a creative industries reception titled Reel Connections from Hollywood to Nollywood, held in Lagos on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

The event recognised eight Nigerian creatives whose work has contributed to the country’s film industry and its professional connections with the United States. Other recipients included actors Richard Mofe-Damijo, filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, producer and director Bolanle Austen-Peters, Africa International Film Festival founder Chioma Ude, Inkblot Productions co-founder Zulumoke “Zulu” Oyibo, film producer Josh Olaoluwa, and visual development artist Uzoma Dunkwu.

US Consul General Brandon Hudspeth highlighted Jacobs’ career across theatre, television, film and international productions, recognising his contribution to the relationship between Hollywood and Nollywood.

The reception also highlighted professional exchange initiatives that connect Nigerian creatives with the American film industry, including the International Visitor Leadership Program, Global Media Makers, and the American Film Showcase.

Born Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs on July 11, 1942, in Kano, Nigeria, the actor trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before building a career in British theatre and television. His early screen credits included appearances in British television productions such as The Goodies, The Professionals, and The Tomorrow People. He also appeared in international films, including The Dogs of War (1980), Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend (1985), and Pirates (1986), before becoming one of the most recognisable figures in Nigerian cinema.

Over a career spanning more than five decades, Jacobs became known for portraying traditional rulers, patriarchs, and other authoritative characters in Nollywood films. His career has earned him several honours, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007 for Dancing Heart, the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011, and the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2013. He also received the Africa Movie Academy Awards Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.

Jacobs died on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84.