Nigeria’s oldest female doctor, Dr Marienne Abimbola Silva is dead.

The ELITES learnt that Silva, the mother of Nigeria’s most prolific actress Joke Silva Jacob, died peacefully on Sunday morning in Lagos. She was aged 89.

Dr Abimbola Silva was the third Nigerian woman to qualify as a medical doctor. She had a strong attachment to the profession, which brought her so much esteem accolades during her lifetime. In 1979, she was honoured with the Officer of the Order of the Niger.

The grand dame, who performed her civic duty by voting during the last general election in April, was born in Olowogbowo area of Lagos.

Silva is survived by Biyi Silva, screen queen, Joke Silva, Bisi Silva, Jumoke Daodu and Lape Silva