By John Ikani
Nigerian film industry veteran, Ajoke Silva is celebrating four decades in the industry alongside her 60th birthday.
The screen and stage actress recently released stunning photos on Instagram to mark the milestone. She wrote:
“Numbers are very important to me, so this year as I turn 60, I also mark 40 years in the industry I love.”
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View this post on Instagram
In another lengthy post, the actress also recounted when she celebrated her 50th birthday and the loved ones she had lost in the past ten years.
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What she said:
“Ten years ago today on my 50th birthday, we had our renewal of vows in Freedom Park on Lagos Island. Pastor Tony Rapu remarried us. Sir J and I. Six pastors were also part of the team that officiated.”
“In the congregation was my Mum Dr (Mrs) Abimbola Silva. She had taken a wine and white Ankara as aso ebi for the family.
“My aunties Mrs Gbemi Rosiji, Aunty Olga Miller, Aunty Fracesca Emmanuel were all there. All of them in their 80s.
“All of them are now on the other side of eternity. My almost twin sister Bisi was also there.
“She too is on the other side of eternity. With my Dad and my late daughter.
“I believe that’s what happens the older we get…the more milestones we hit. Memories of those we have loved and lost.
“However, being on this side of eternity is so good too. Challenging …definitely especially the last 5years.
“Wawoo. A massive thank you to my sons Soji @mrjacobs_jnr and Gbenga @oj_poetry, , my daughter Blessing @_blessing_douglas and granddaughter Dayo @atarahbaby for making these years bearable.
“Also my staff; Paulina, Micheal, John. Without this team these last 5years would have been impossible.
“Now the big 60 is here and I thank God for His oh so massive mercies. Yes that’s it. Gratitude for health,for love of family and friends. Thank you Lord.”
What you should know
The film star, who is the wife of Olu Jacobs, another ace actor, has featured in over 100 productions since her career kicked off from stage.
Joke landed her breakout role starring alongside Colin Firth and Nia Long in the British-Canadian film ‘The Secret Laughter of Women.’
In 2006 and 2008, the actress won the Best Actress in a Leading role and Best Actress in a Supporting role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA). She has also received multiple recognitions for her contribution to arts and culture.
Silva is also one of the few veterans who made a successful transition to what has been described as the ‘new Nollywood’ era.
