Nollywood actress Halima Abubakar has recounted the painful loneliness she experienced while battling a prolonged illness, saying the difficult period changed the way she viewed friendship, loyalty and support in the entertainment industry.
Abubakar disclosed that she reached out to music executive Michael Collins Ajereh, popularly known as Don Jazzy, more than 19 times during the period but received no response.
The actress, who has been candid about her health struggles in recent years, said the experience was particularly painful because she had expected friends and colleagues within the entertainment industry to show concern while she was fighting for her health.
According to her, repeated attempts to contact Don Jazzy yielded no response, leaving her disappointed at a time when she was already dealing with the emotional and physical burden of illness.
She also alleged that some of her colleagues did not visit her, send messages or even delegate people to check on her condition.
For Abubakar, the absence of people she regarded as friends was made more difficult by the seriousness of her situation. She described the period as one in which she was effectively “left to die.”
Her account offers a glimpse into the less visible side of life in the entertainment industry, where fame and public recognition do not always translate into personal support when an individual is confronted with a serious health challenge.
While entertainers often appear surrounded by colleagues, fans and industry associates during successful periods, Abubakar's experience highlights the stark difference that can emerge when illness forces someone away from the spotlight.
The actress suggested that the ordeal taught her an important lesson about relationships — particularly the distinction between people who are present during moments of celebration and those who remain supportive when circumstances become difficult.
Despite the disappointment she experienced, Abubakar said she ultimately drew strength from her faith. She credited God with sustaining her through the darkest period of her illness and allowing her to survive what she described as a frightening chapter of her life.
Her reflections have also reignited broader conversations about the welfare of entertainers dealing with prolonged illness. Serious health challenges can leave performers physically isolated and professionally disconnected, particularly when their inability to work removes them from the social and commercial circles that ordinarily surround them.
Abubakar's story therefore goes beyond her personal disappointment. It raises questions about the importance of compassion, genuine friendship and informal support networks for public figures who may appear strong in public but experience profound vulnerability in private.
The actress's health journey has been marked by resilience, and her latest disclosure suggests that surviving the ordeal has also reshaped her understanding of the people around her.
For Abubakar, the greatest takeaway appears to be gratitude. Despite feeling abandoned by some of those she expected to stand beside her, she said her faith gave her the strength to endure — and she remains thankful for another chance at life.