Hidden facts you need to know about Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai
Barely 48hours after the death of an iconic servant of God, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai was made public, his biography has surfaced on the internet.
Biography of Rev Uma Ukpai, age, education, ministry, marriage, children
Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai (born January 7, 1945) is a renowned Nigerian Christian evangelist, teacher, and humanitarian.
He is the Founder and President of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA) a global, non-denominational outreach ministry headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.
For more than five decades, Dr. Ukpai has carried the message of hope, healing, and salvation across nations, combining spiritual revival with practical compassion for humanity.
Early Life and Education
Born in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State, Nigeria, Uma Ukpai faced significant hardship early in life. The death of his father when he was just ten years old left the family in dire conditions, shaping in him a spirit of resilience and deep empathy for the poor.
In 1958, he experienced a personal encounter with Christ that marked the beginning of his lifelong devotion to the gospel.
Dr. Ukpai’s educational journey was both broad and diverse. He attended:
Uma Ukpai Memorial Primary School, Asaga
Khana County Council School, Ogoni
All Saints Secondary School, Aba
Niger Delta Technical School (now Boys Technical College), Aba
He later studied in the United Kingdom at the School of Journalism and Television, Frisham, Hermitage, and in the United States at South Florida Christian College, Carolina Christian University, and Burke Bible College, Kentucky. He holds a Certificate in Electrical Engineering Practice, a Diploma in Journalism, and earned both Bachelor’s and Doctorate degrees in Divinity.
Ministry and Impact
Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai founded the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA) to fulfill his calling to evangelize and serve people beyond denominational lines. Through large crusades such as “Greater Lagos for Christ” (1985), “Greater Ohafia Crusade”, and the “One-Million-Man Crusade”, he has drawn millions to hear the gospel message.
The 1985 Greater Lagos Crusade is widely recognized as a historic event that united churches across Nigeria and inspired the formation of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).
Beyond the pulpit, Dr. Ukpai’s ministry integrates humanitarian service with evangelism. He established:
Uma Ukpai Eye Centre and King of Kings Hospital, providing free medical and surgical care to thousands across Nigeria.
Uma Ukpai Polytechnic, Uma Ukpai School of Theology and Biblical Studies, and several scholarship initiatives for underprivileged students.
His ministry also runs extensive rural medical outreaches and empowerment programs that continue to transform communities in Abia, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River States.
Personal Life
Dr. Ukpai married Philomena Uma Ukpai in 1975, and together they have raised a family marked by strong Christian values and public service. Despite facing personal tragedies — including the loss of some of their children — the couple has remained steadfast in faith and committed to uplifting others through their experiences.
Legacy and Influence
Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai stands as one of Africa’s foremost Christian leaders a man whose faith has translated into tangible acts of compassion and national unity. His ministry emphasizes faith in God, service to humanity, and unity in the body of Christ.
As of the time of filing this report, there has not been any news about the funeral arrangements of the globally celebrated preacher of the gospel of Christ.
