Evangelist | Veterinarian | Public Servant | Politician | Farmer
Evangelist, Hon. Ayibatari Mac-Fisi was a man of rare strength, humility, and resilience—an accomplished livestock professional, devoted servant of God, grassroots politician, and successful farmer whose life embodied diligence, faith, and unwavering optimism. Fondly remembered for his philosophy, “Tomorrow Is Another Day,” he lived a life defined by perseverance, service, and compassion.
Early Life and Background
Ayibatari Mac-Fisi was born on October 22, 1957, in Agbobiri-Okordia Community, Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, to Late Apinaowei Fisi and Late Karunah Fisi. He was the only surviving child of his parents.
Popularly called “Daa” in his formative years, he experienced hardship early in life, losing his father at a tender age. This left his upbringing solely in the hands of his industrious mother, Karunah Fisi, a hardworking farmer whose dedication ensured her son received the best possible upbringing.
Young Ayibatari complemented his mother’s efforts with remarkable diligence, actively supporting her farming activities. Together, they built a life rooted in hard work, resilience, and mutual success.
Education and Academic Pursuits
He began his primary education at Okordia/Zarama, before proceeding to Kaiama Grammar School, where he distinguished himself as the Dining Hall Prefect (Class of 1977).
Driven by a quest for knowledge, he advanced to the Rivers State University of Science and Technology (now Rivers State University), graduating in 1982.
Still striving for excellence, he furthered his studies at the Michael Okpara College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Umuagwo, graduating in 1986.
His academic journey laid the foundation for what would become an outstanding career in livestock and veterinary services, earning him recognition as one of the finest livestock professionals the Ijaw nation has produced.
Civil Service Career
Ayibatari Mac-Fisi began his career in 1978, serving in the civil service of old Rivers State and later Bayelsa State until his retirement in 2013.
As a Livestock and Veterinary Officer in the Ministry of Agriculture, he served in various communities, demonstrating exceptional dedication, professionalism, and results-oriented service delivery.
Known for his optimism and resilience, his guiding principle—“Tomorrow Is Another Day”—became a source of inspiration to colleagues and associates. He retired meritoriously, leaving behind a record of integrity and excellence.
Entrepreneurship and Business Ventures
Beyond public service, he was an astute entrepreneur. In the 1990s, he established a thriving dog kennel and veterinary outfit in Port Harcourt, which became highly sought after by multinational oil companies and private clients.
His business specialized in leasing trained security dogs, a venture he managed with professionalism and success, earning him both recognition and financial stability.
Political Journey and Public Appointments
Though not driven by desperation, he participated actively in politics, contributing meaningfully at the grassroots level.
His political engagements included:
- Secretary, Yenagoa Local Government Council (2004) under the administration of Late Anthony John
- Special Adviser to the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) on Community Matters (2003)
He also contested for the position of Mayor of Yenagoa Local Government Council (circa 2008) under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Despite being initially favored, his candidacy was withdrawn—a major disappointment he bore with grace and dignity.
Life After Retirement: Farming and Enterprise
Retirement in 2013 marked the beginning of a flourishing agricultural chapter. At his Okutukutu residence in Yenagoa, he developed a vibrant farming enterprise that included:
- Vegetable and fruit cultivation
- Aquaculture (fish farming)
- Plantain plantation
His farm became a model of productivity and sustainability, providing both livelihood and fulfillment.
Challenges and Unfulfilled Entitlements
Despite his years of dedicated service, he faced a significant challenge: the non-payment of his gratuity by the Bayelsa State Government. This remained a source of concern and distress to him until his passing, reflecting a painful reality faced by many retired public servants.
Family Life
Evangelist, Hon. Ayibatari Mac-Fisi was married to his beloved wife,
Mrs. Alaere Ann Mac-Fisi (née Weigha), with whom he shared over 40 years of a loving and harmonious marriage.
Their union was widely admired for its warmth, unity, and deep friendship.
He was blessed with nine children and twelve grandchildren. His children include:
Daughters:
- Gold Nyekefamo Jimiro
- Ebifate James Guide-Me
- Inebimo Sandra Ile
- Erebi Fyness Mac-Fisi
- Dr. Princess Pere-ere Mac-Fisi
Sons:
- Kenneth Mac-Fisi
- George Mac-Fisi
- Owen Mac-Fisi
He is also survived by two daughters-in-law and numerous relatives.
Faith and Spiritual Life
A devout Christian, he and his wife were baptized into the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star around 1980.
His service to the church was extensive:
- Bethel Administrator, Ahoada Pentecostal Centre
- Pioneering Chorister
- Ordained Evangelist at No. 51 Ngo Pentecostal Centre, Port Harcourt
- Chairman, Bethel Choir
- Auditor, Bayelsa State Bethel
- Chairman, Education Fellowship
- Patron of the Bethel
- Vice Chairman, Men’s Fellowship (Ede-pie Bethel)
His life reflected deep spiritual commitment and service to God.
Personality, Passions, and Social Life
Ayibatari Mac-Fisi was widely known for his:
- Kindness and generosity
- Cheerful disposition
- Strong support for his children’s education
In his youth, he was a talented footballer, representing both his school and community before an injury ended his sporting ambitions.
He was also a passionate lover of Reggae music, especially artists like Bob Marley and The Wailers, Don Carlos, and UB40. In the 1980s, he was an active member of the Port Harcourt Reggae Club, contributing to the vibrant cultural scene of the era.
He remained deeply connected to his alma mater, Kaiama Grammar School Set ’77, actively participating in reunions and drawing strength from the fellowship.
Death and Burial
Evangelist, Hon. Ayibatari Mac-Fisi passed away unexpectedly on November 25, 2022, at his residence in Okutukutu, Yenagoa, at the age of 65.
He was laid to rest in his hometown, Okordia, on December 17, 2022.
Legacy
Ayibatari Mac-Fisi’s life was a testament to hard work, faith, resilience, and service. From humble beginnings, he rose to become a respected professional, community leader, and devoted family man.
He will be remembered as:
- A dedicated public servant
- A skilled livestock professional
- A faithful servant of God
- A loving husband and father
- A man who never lost hope—always believing that tomorrow would be better
