Beyond the immediate emotional reactions, many of the tributes focused on the scale of Jacobs’ career.

Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. They built an international career before becoming one of the most recognisable faces of Nigerian film and theatre.

He appeared in British television productions and international films before returning to Nigeria, where he became a defining figure in the country’s emerging film industry.

His commanding voice, diction and ability to portray authoritative characters made him particularly recognisable to Nigerian audiences.

Alongside Joke Silva, whom he married in 1989, Jacobs was also involved in the Lufodo Group and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, extending their contribution to the industry beyond acting into production, distribution and training.

His achievements included the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in 2013 and a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. He was also conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.

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