Veteran Nollywood actress Sola Sobowale has revealed the significant role late actor Olu Jacobs played in shaping her acting career.
Sobowale spoke at the Night of Tributes and Service of Songs held in honour of Jacobs at Glover Memorial Hall, Lagos Island, on Wednesday.
The actress said audiences often praise her acting ability without knowing the person who helped develop her craft.
“When people see Sola Sobowale, they say she is a fantastic actor, but somebody trained me and Baba Olu Jacobs was that person who trained me,” she said.
She described Jacobs as a man of knowledge and wisdom who was selfless in his dealings with others.
Sobowale’s tribute formed part of an evening in which colleagues, family members and other figures from the Nigerian entertainment industry reflected on Jacobs’ career and influence.
Among those who attended the event were Richard Mofe-Damijo, Funke Akindele, Jide Kosoko, Kate Henshaw, Hilda Dokubo, Norbert Young and other Nollywood veterans.
Jacobs died on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84. His son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced his death, describing the veteran actor as “The Lion of Lufodo.”
His career spanned more than five decades across theatre, television and film. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before building a career in British theatre and television and later becoming one of Nigeria’s most recognised screen actors.
Sobowale’s remarks highlighted another dimension of Jacobs’ legacy: his influence not only through his own performances, but also through the actors whose careers he helped shape.
Jacobs’ funeral service is scheduled for Friday, October 2, at This Present House in Lekki, Lagos.
