Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai Biography: Age, Wife, Children, Net Worth, Parents, Tribe, Ministry, and Death
Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai was one of Nigeria’s most respected Christian evangelists, a preacher known for his deep faith, compassion, and commitment to spreading the gospel of Christ. For over six decades, he dedicated his life to soul-winning, humanitarian service, and building strong Christian institutions. His impact extended far beyond the pulpit, touching lives through education, healthcare, and spiritual revival across Nigeria and Africa.
Early Life and Background
Uma Ukpai was born on January 7, 1945, in Asaga, Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. He was born into a humble family and experienced the harsh realities of life at a very young age. He lost his father when he was just ten years old, a tragedy that placed heavy responsibility on his shoulders. This early experience of hardship shaped his compassion for the poor and his determination to live a purposeful life.
Despite the challenges of his childhood, Uma Ukpai was known to be brilliant, curious, and determined. He completed his primary and secondary education in local schools in Abia State, where he demonstrated both leadership and academic excellence.
Education
Dr. Uma Ukpai valued education greatly and believed it was key to transformation. After completing his secondary education, he furthered his studies both in Nigeria and abroad.
He attended the School of Journalism and Television in the United Kingdom, South Florida Christian College in the United States, and Burke Bible College in Kentucky, where he obtained a Doctorate in Divinity. He also earned qualifications in Electrical Engineering and Journalism, showing his versatility and love for learning.
Call to Ministry and Early Christian Life
Uma Ukpai’s journey of faith began early. At the age of thirteen, he gave his life to Christ during a church program, marking the beginning of a lifelong commitment to evangelism. His zeal for prayer and his hunger for the Word of God made him stand out even as a young believer.
During his early years as a preacher, he faced many challenges, including financial struggles and opposition from those who doubted his calling. However, his perseverance, humility, and unwavering faith helped him overcome every obstacle.
Ministry and Evangelistic Career
Dr. Uma Ukpai founded the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Through this ministry, he organized crusades, healing services, leadership conferences, and humanitarian programs that drew thousands of people. His ministry became known for its focus on salvation, healing, and unity among Christians.
Over the years, he preached in nearly every part of Nigeria and in several countries abroad. His crusades such as the Greater Lagos for Christ, Greater Ibadan for Christ, and Greater Ohafia for Christ Crusades attracted massive crowds and were marked by testimonies of healing, deliverance, and spiritual revival.
Uma Ukpai was also one of the founding fathers of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), alongside other notable preachers like Archbishop Benson Idahosa. His passion for unity and interdenominational cooperation helped strengthen the Pentecostal movement in Nigeria.
Educational and Humanitarian Projects
Beyond preaching, Dr. Uma Ukpai believed in empowering people through education and healthcare. He established several institutions and initiatives that continue to impact lives.
- Uma Ukpai Polytechnic (Asaga, Abia State): A technical institution offering various academic and vocational programs to young Nigerians.
- Uma Ukpai School of Theology and Biblical Studies (Uyo): An institution dedicated to training pastors and church workers in sound biblical knowledge.
- King of Kings Specialist Hospital and Eye Centre: A medical outreach program that provides affordable and free healthcare, especially to the underprivileged.
Through these initiatives, he combined spiritual and social transformation, showing that true ministry must touch every area of human need.
Personal Life
Dr. Uma Ukpai was married to Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, a woman known for her quiet strength, compassion, and devotion to ministry. Together, they served as partners in faith and ministry for several decades.
Their marriage was blessed with eight biological children and one adopted child. Despite their joy as a family, they experienced deep sorrow when two of their children died in a tragic car accident many years ago. Uma Ukpai often shared how that painful experience strengthened his faith and taught him deeper trust in God’s sovereignty.
Age and Passing
Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai lived a long and fruitful life. He passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80. His passing was met with an outpouring of tributes from Christian leaders, politicians, and followers across the country. Many described him as “a general of faith,” “a true servant of God,” and “a father to many.”
His funeral services were attended by thousands who celebrated his impactful life and the enduring legacy he left behind.
Net Worth
Although Dr. Uma Ukpai never focused on material wealth, he was blessed through his years of ministry and institution-building. He owned several mission properties, including educational facilities, health centers, and ministry offices.
Exact figures of his net worth are not publicly available, but his wealth was evident in his contributions to education, community development, and church growth. He used much of his resources for humanitarian causes rather than personal luxury.
Character and Leadership Style
Dr. Uma Ukpai was known for his humility, discipline, and strong spiritual authority. He believed in integrity and often emphasized that a true minister must lead by example.
He lived a simple lifestyle and was known for his prayer life. Many who worked with him testified that he spent long hours in prayer and fasting, seeking divine direction for his ministry. He also mentored many young ministers who now lead churches and organizations around the world.
Teachings and Beliefs
The central themes of Uma Ukpai’s teachings were faith, holiness, healing, and service. He believed that faith in God could transform lives and nations.
His popular sayings often focused on the power of prayer and the reality of miracles. He encouraged believers to live righteously and serve humanity selflessly. He also promoted unity among Christians regardless of denomination, arguing that “heaven has no denomination.”
Impact and Legacy
Dr. Uma Ukpai’s impact cannot be overstated. Through his preaching, countless people came to faith in Christ. His emphasis on education led to the training of thousands of students who today serve in various fields.
His hospitals and eye clinics have provided healthcare to rural communities. His leadership in the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria strengthened the voice of the church in the country.
Even after his passing, his ministry continues to run strong under his family and disciples, maintaining his vision of evangelism and humanitarian service.
Awards and Recognitions
Over the course of his life, Dr. Uma Ukpai received numerous awards from religious and civic organizations. These included honorary doctorates, community leadership awards, and humanitarian recognitions for his work in education and healthcare.
He was also honored by several Nigerian state governments and Christian associations for his contribution to national moral and spiritual development.
Tribe and Origin
Uma Ukpai was of Igbo origin and hailed from Ohafia, a community well-known for its rich cultural history and Christian heritage. He often spoke proudly of his roots and used his influence to support development in the southeastern region of Nigeria.
Death and Burial
Following his death in October 2025, his family and ministry announced a week-long celebration of his life and service. His remains were laid to rest in his hometown, Asaga Ohafia, Abia State. The burial was attended by top church leaders, political figures, and thousands of admirers who came to pay their respects.
Summary
Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai lived a life of faith, discipline, and service. From humble beginnings in Ohafia, he rose to become one of Nigeria’s most influential evangelists and educators. Through his crusades, schools, and hospitals, he touched lives across continents.
He will always be remembered as a man who combined spiritual depth with practical compassion. His teachings, institutions, and legacy continue to inspire millions of Christians around the world.
