Joke Silva Shares Heartfelt Insights On Caring for Husband Olu Jacobs Amid Dementia Battle.
Veteran Nollywood actress Joke Silva has opened up about the challenges of supporting her husband, the iconic actor Olu Jacobs, as he navigates life with dementia. In a candid interview with media personality Nancy Isime, Silva shared that managing her husband’s condition has been one of the most difficult periods of her life, yet her love and commitment to him remain unwavering.
Silva, who has been married to Jacobs for 37 years, spoke poignantly about the profound changes his illness has brought to their relationship. “It hasn’t been easy,” she admitted. “There was a point of acceptance for me that everything happening is reality. It’s like the person I married, 80 per cent of the time, is no longer there.” Despite this, she emphasised the strength of their bond, recalling Jacobs as an “incredible father” and an “amazing husband” who was once her closest confidant. “When he was there, he was practically my best friend,” she said, reflecting on their shared history.
The actress revealed that Jacobs has been battling Dementia with Lewy Bodies, a degenerative condition affecting the brain, for several years. This progressive illness has altered his personality and capabilities, requiring Silva to adapt to a new dynamic in their marriage. “So in this journey now, it’s like I am looking after my father,” she explained, noting that she now loves him in a different, yet equally profound, way. “This man that is here is somebody that I still love, but love in a different way.”
Despite the emotional and physical toll, Silva’s resilience shines through. She spoke of finding strength in their shared vows, stating, “It’s about honouring the vow we made, for better or worse, in health and in sickness.” Her devotion is evident in her refusal to shy away from public life, having accompanied Jacobs to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) in 2021, a move that inspired many for its openness and courage.
Silva’s transparency has also sparked broader conversations about mental health and dementia in Nigeria. By sharing her story, she has highlighted the importance of awareness and support for those affected by such conditions. “This journey is not about pity; it is about gratitude that I still have him here to hold, to love, and to cherish,” she said, underscoring the enduring power of their love.
The couple, who met in 1981 at the National Theatre in Lagos, have long been celebrated as one of Nollywood’s most enduring partnerships. Together, they founded the Lufodo Group, a media corporation encompassing film production and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, where Silva serves as Director of Studies. Their contributions to Nigerian cinema have been immense, with Jacobs starring in Hollywood productions like *Ashanti* and Silva earning accolades such as Best Actress at the Africa Movie Academy Awards.
Silva also addressed recurring rumours about her husband’s health, firmly debunking false claims of his passing. In a 2024 interview, she confirmed, “My husband is alive and doing just fine,” dispelling misinformation with grace and clarity. Her strength in the face of such challenges has earned her widespread admiration, with many praising her as a beacon of love and resilience.
As Silva continues to care for Jacobs, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in love and commitment. “True love shines brightest when life becomes difficult,” she said, a sentiment that resonates deeply with those facing similar challenges. Her openness not only honours her husband’s legacy but also inspires others to confront life’s hardships with courage and compassion.
