Technician, Engineering Instructor
The Late Stephen Nunoebiyu Mac-Ake, affectionately known as “Fine Boy,” was a man whose presence was nothing short of majestic. Standing tall at 6.1ft with a radiant fair complexion and an amiable disposition, he effortlessly captured the hearts of many. A renowned technical auto mechanic from the Ogbia Kingdom in Bayelsa State, Nigeria, Stephen was more than just a technician. From the 1980s, he dedicated his life to training the youth in the Niger Delta in mechanical engineering, and he played a pivotal role in the agricultural sector during the illustrious School-to-Land Project of old Rivers State.
Birth and Early Life
Born on May 2, 1942, in his hometown of Amorokeni, Kolo Group, Ogbia Kingdom, colonial Nigeria (now in Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State), Stephen was the first of five siblings. His father, the Late Mac Ake Nunoebiyu, and mother, the predeceased Mrs. Mac Ake Ayebakipreye, hailed from respected compounds in Amorokeni. Stephen’s handsome appearance earned him the nickname “Fine Boy” from his mother and the community—a name that stuck with him throughout his life. Despite his radiant looks, he was known for his hard work, diligence, intelligence, and affable nature.
Education
Stephen’s educational journey began at the local authority school in Amorokeni from 1948 to 1951, continuing at the local authority school in Emeyal, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate. His fascination with machines and science flourished at Martha Dei High School, Imringi. Though the Nigeria Civil War halted his education temporarily, Stephen’s determination saw him earn his West Africa Examination Certificate in 1970 and later a placement at the Government Technical Center, Ahoada. In 1973, he graduated with an Ordinary National Diploma (OND) in mechanics from the Federal Polytechnic Auchi, Bendel State, and subsequently earned a Bachelor’s degree in Auto Mechanic Engineering from the College Polytechnic University of Benin Republic of Calani in 1980.
Career Life
After his graduation in 1973, Stephen faced the dilemma of pursuing further education or securing a job to support his family. He chose the latter, finding employment with the Nigeria Police Force’s Marine Division in Port Harcourt in 1974. However, his passion for mechanics led him to leave the police and join the Rivers State Civil Service in 1976 as a technical instructor at the Government Vocational Technical Center, Aba Road, Port Harcourt.
Stephen furthered his education with a Bachelor’s degree in Auto Mechanic Engineering and completed the mandatory NYSC at the Nigeria Army formation in Imo State in 1980. His illustrious career included stints at the Government Comprehensive Secondary School, the School-to-Land Program initiated by the late Commissioner of Police F.E. Oyakhilome, and the Rivers State Employment Center.
When Bayelsa State was created in 1996, Stephen transferred his service and continued his contributions until his retirement in May 2009. His dedication to youth training and mechanical engineering left an indelible mark on the Niger Delta.
Community/Social Life
Stephen was known for his peaceful nature, jovial personality, and willingness to speak the truth, no matter the consequences. In the 1960s and 70s, he was a vibrant presence in Port Harcourt, living life to the fullest with his love for fashion, music, and gadgets. He was particularly fond of Jamaican reggae, especially the works of Bob Marley, Eric Donaldson, and Don Carlos, as well as the highlife music of Rex Lawson and Victor Uwaifo. These genres brought him immense joy and comfort, even in his later years. Stephen was actively involved in various socio-cultural groups, including the Amorokeni Development Union, Kolo Creek Progressive Union, and Ogbia Brotherhood Worldwide. He also served as a Regent of Amorokeni Town, where his contributions were highly esteemed.
Faith
Stephen was a devoted member of the Gospel Deliverance Mission (GDM) in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. He was committed to attending Sunday services, Sunday school, and other church programs. Despite his failing health, he would make his way to church, often risking his life to cross the busy Melford Okilo Road. Through his faith, he found solace and hope in Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.
Family
Though a polygamist, Stephen was married to Mac-Ake Chimelam Naomi Nee Koru of Idema town, Ogbia LGA, a retired civil servant of the Bayelsa State government. She was his steadfast companion through life’s challenges. Together, they lived at their residence on Deeper Life Camp Road, Okutukutu, Yenagoa LGA, Bayelsa State, until his passing. Stephen had nine children.
His Death
On December 3, 2024, Stephen Nunoebiyu Mac-Ake was admitted to the Niger Delta University Hospital Okolobiri for stroke and high blood pressure-related illness. Unfortunately, he could not recover and passed away shortly after. He was 82 years old.
Funeral
On February 7th, the community of Amorokeni in Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, came together to lay to rest the Late Chief Stephen Nunoebiyu Mac-Ake, fondly known as “Fine Boy.” A beloved figure and a prominent technical auto mechanic, Chief Mac-Ake dedicated his life to training youths in mechanical engineering and contributing to the agricultural sector. Join us as we honor his legacy and celebrate the life of a true community hero.
