Joke Silva at 65: Actors Guild of Nigeria, RMD and Fans Honour Veteran Actress on Her Birthday
Veteran Nigerian actress Joke Silva has been celebrated by colleagues, the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and fans as she marks her 65th birthday. The Joke Silva 65th birthday tributes began on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, with messages praising her decades-long contribution to Nollywood and the wider Nigerian creative industry.
The milestone comes during a period of mourning. Silva’s husband, veteran actor Olu Jacobs, died on September 16 at the age of 84. Many of the tributes acknowledged her loss while celebrating her life and career.
The Actors Guild of Nigeria praised Silva as an actress, mentor and member of its Board of Trustees. In its birthday message, the guild highlighted her discipline, character and commitment to the acting profession. It described her as a trailblazer whose influence goes beyond her performances to the guidance and support she has given younger actors, and called her not just a star but an entire constellation. The guild said she has contributed to the development of Nigerian theatre and film through both her acting and her leadership.
Veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, shared a personal tribute on Instagram. He described Silva as his younger sister, using the Yoruba word “aburo,” and as a dear friend and colleague. He recalled that their friendship and professional relationship has lasted more than 40 years. In a playful line, he wrote that 65 is no small age, and he used an affectionate nickname that only he, as her elder brother, could call her.
RMD also acknowledged her grief. He wrote that even as she mourns the love of her life, Uncle Jay, her life of grace, dedication and love for her family, her craft and her country is being remembered. He said her contribution to the entertainment industry and the lives she has touched were immeasurable, and that it had been a privilege to witness her journey and to celebrate the woman she has become. He commended her devotion to her family and to the growth of Nollywood.
Silva’s career spans theatre, television and film, and she is regarded as one of the most recognisable figures in the Nigerian entertainment industry. She is an actress, director and producer, and a co-founder of Lufodo Productions. Reports describe her as a cultural leader who has been a pioneer in Nollywood. Fans affectionately call her “Mummy J,” and many used social media to share favourite roles, memories and messages of support.
The tributes show how much respect she commands across generations of performers. Younger actors have often credited veterans like Silva and Jacobs with setting standards of professionalism on stage and screen, and with helping to build the industry from its earlier days.
While the day was a celebration, the messages also carried a sense of sympathy for the family. Colleagues and fans have continued to send condolences following the passing of Olu Jacobs, whose own career in film and theatre earned him wide admiration.
More tributes are expected to follow as the industry reflects on Silva’s milestone and her lasting influence on Nigerian and African entertainment.
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