How Olu Jacobs Became Known As The ‘Lion Of Lufodo’

Veteran actor Olu Jacobs was described as “The Lion of Lufodo” by his wife, actress Joke Silva, in a tribute that has since become closely associated with his legacy.

Silva used the title while celebrating Jacobs’ 84th birthday in July 2026, referring to her husband as “THE LION OF LUFODO.” Following his death at 84 on September 16, 2026, his family also used the description in announcing his passing.

The title is linked to Jacobs’ long association with Lufodo, the creative organisation he co-founded with Silva. The couple’s work through Lufodo extended beyond their individual acting careers into film and television production, distribution and the wider performing arts.

Jacobs and Silva also established the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, which provides professional training in the performing arts. Jacobs served as the organisation’s executive chairman.

Although there is no widely documented account establishing when the phrase “Lion of Lufodo” was first coined, its use by Silva and subsequently by Jacobs’ family has made it part of the language surrounding his legacy.

For an actor whose career spanned British theatre, international productions and Nigerian cinema, the title reflects another side of Jacobs’ contribution — his role in building a creative enterprise with Silva and supporting the performing arts beyond his work on screen.