Rev Uma Ukpai biography – Discover the inspiring life story of Nigeria’s legendary evangelist, founder of UUEA, his age, wife Philomena, children, net worth, ministry achievements, and lasting legacy.

Who is Rev Uma Ukpai?

Rev Uma Ukpai was a Nigerian Christian leader, international evangelist, and preacher who dedicated over six decades of his life to spreading the gospel across the world. Born on January 7, 1945, in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State, he became one of Africa’s most influential Pentecostal voices and a founding father of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).

As the founder and president of Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), a non-denominational gospel ministry based in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Rev Ukpai transformed millions of lives through his powerful crusades, prophetic ministry, and humanitarian works. His signature blend of deep biblical teaching, passionate altar calls, and remarkable testimonies of healing and deliverance made him a household name across Nigeria and beyond.

Rev Ukpai passed away on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of believers. His life was marked by incredible faith, resilience in the face of tragedy, and an unwavering commitment to advancing God’s kingdom on earth.

Quick Facts About Rev Uma Ukpai

Early Life: From Tragedy to Triumph

Rev Uma Ukpai’s early life was marked by significant challenges that would later shape his ministry and character. Born into an Igbo family in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State, young Uma experienced the loss of his father at the tender age of 10 in 1955. This tragedy forced him to grow up quickly, taking on responsibilities far beyond his years.

Childhood Struggles and Divine Protection

Reflecting on his childhood, Rev Ukpai once remarked, “I know what it means to lose a father and be a father from that age. I know what it is to save money to pay school fees. So, I have feelings for the poor. I learnt early enough to know that the stone Satan throws at you can become a stepping stone.”

His mother had lost one or two children before Uma was born, which made her extremely protective of him. An old man had prophesied to her about Uma’s future, instructing her not to allow him to cook or work as a houseboy because God had special plans for his life. She heeded this instruction, working tirelessly to provide for him while protecting his destiny.

The Life-Changing Conversion of 1958

In 1958, at the age of 13, Uma Ukpai gave his life to Christ at the Assembly of God Church. This encounter with Jesus Christ would become the foundation of everything he would accomplish in his lifetime. His conversion wasn’t just a religious experience but a divine appointment that set the course for his extraordinary ministry.

After his father’s death, Uma’s uncle took him to Ogoni, Rivers State, which proved to be a turning point. Living with his uncle provided him access to better education and eventually led to his encounter with Christianity. This relocation, though born out of tragedy, became what he later described as his “arrival to the Promise Land.”

Education: A Scholar and a Preacher

Rev Uma Ukpai was not just a powerful preacher but also a well-educated scholar with diverse academic qualifications spanning technical, media, and theological studies.

Primary and Secondary Education

He attended Uma Ukpai Memorial Primary School in Asaga and Khana County Council School in Ogoni for his primary education. For secondary education, he passed through All Saints Secondary School in Aba and Niger Delta Technical School (now Boys Technical College), Aba.

International Academic Pursuits

Rev Ukpai’s quest for knowledge took him across continents. He studied at the School of Journalism and Television in Frisham, Hermitage, United Kingdom, which equipped him with media skills that he later used effectively for evangelism. In the United States, he attended South Florida Christian College in Miami, Florida; Carolina Christian University; and Burke Bible College in Kentucky.

Academic Credentials

His diverse educational background included:

• Certificate in Electrical Engineering Practice
• Diploma in Journalism
• Bachelor’s Degree in Divinity
• Doctorate Degree in Divinity

This unique combination of technical knowledge, media expertise, and theological training positioned him as a polyglot of faith and science, capable of communicating the gospel effectively to diverse audiences.

Ministry Journey: Building God’s Kingdom

The Beginning: A Mad Man and a Miracle

Rev Ukpai’s ministry was launched through an extraordinary incident during his school days. A mad man named “Deco” came to Khana Country Council Secondary School in Rivers State and terrorized everyone. While students and teachers ran in fear, young Uma heard God’s voice instructing him to command the mad man to leave.

He obeyed, commanding Deco to roll out of the school, and the man immediately fell and rolled away. This miracle at such a young age confirmed his calling and launched him into public ministry. His headmaster, initially thinking Uma was involved in occult practices, was amazed when the young boy explained it was the power of Jesus Christ. The headmaster then appointed him as the school’s pastor, leading morning prayers daily.

Founding the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association

Rev Ukpai founded the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), which became one of Nigeria’s most active non-denominational gospel ministries. Headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, UUEA became the vehicle through which he organized massive crusades that drew hundreds of thousands of people.

His evangelistic campaigns were characterized by:

• Powerful preaching of God’s Word
• Prophetic demonstrations
• Miraculous healings and deliverances
• Mass salvation of souls
• Social transformation of communities

Birth of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria

One of Rev Ukpai’s most significant contributions to Nigerian Christianity was his role in establishing the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN). Following his groundbreaking Greater Lagos for Christ Crusade in 1985 at the National Stadium, Surulere, which featured 5,000 choristers and 7,110 counselors, the PFN was born.

He served in various leadership capacities within PFN, including:

• Founding Father of PFN
• National Vice President
• National Chairman of the Think-Tank Committee
• President of the Nigerian Council of Gospel Ministers (COGMON)

UUEA also became one of the major financiers of PFN, demonstrating his commitment to the broader body of Christ.

Major Crusades and Global Impact

Rev Ukpai held numerous citywide crusades across Nigeria and internationally, including:

Greater Lagos for Christ Crusade (1985) – This historic crusade birthed the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria and marked a turning point in Nigerian Pentecostalism.

Greater Ibadan for Christ (1982) – A significant crusade that demonstrated God’s power and drew massive crowds.

Greater Ohafia For Christ Crusade – An annual event in his hometown that blessed thousands.

Anioma One-Million Man Crusade (2016) – Held in collaboration with Dr. Celestine Iwendi, this crusade witnessed remarkable miracles and mass conversions.

Nsukka Crusade (2012) – Another major evangelistic outreach that impacted the university community.

His ministry extended beyond Nigeria to Europe, the Americas, and other parts of Africa, making him a truly international evangelist.

Ministry Timeline & Major Milestones

Personal Life: Marriage and Family

Meeting His Life Partner

Rev Uma Ukpai met his wife, Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, during the Nigerian Civil War (Biafran War) when they all returned to their villages. To keep themselves occupied during the war, young people formed a student union to discuss community development and conduct programs that gave hope during difficult times.

It was during this period that Uma noticed Philomena, but their love story wasn’t instantaneous. As he dedicated himself to full-time ministry and preached in universities, God revealed to him that she would be his life partner. However, it took another three years for God to speak to her heart and convince her of His plan for their lives together.

Marriage and Children

Rev Ukpai and Pastor Philomena enjoyed a blessed marriage that lasted over 40 years. Their union produced eight biological children and one adopted child, reflecting Rev Ukpai’s large-hearted and compassionate nature.

Pastor Philomena was not just his wife but also his ministry partner, serving alongside him as a minister of the gospel. Together, they built a strong family foundation while advancing God’s kingdom.

The Tragedy That Tested Their Faith

In one of the most devastating experiences of their lives, Rev Ukpai and his wife lost two of their children in a car accident on the same day. This tragedy occurred when their trusted driver ran into a river while on their way to a crusade in his village.

God had warned Rev Ukpai about this test two months before it happened. On the same morning of the accident, armed robbers broke into his office and stole equipment. Additionally, his 50-seater bus carrying his band members caught fire, resulting in multiple deaths.

Despite this overwhelming tragedy that happened in a single day, Rev Ukpai displayed remarkable faith. Incredibly, he still preached the next morning after burying his children. He later testified that God told him to forgive the robbers and never collect back the stolen items, and promised that for handling the test well, he would be seen everywhere.

True to God’s word, after this trial in 1982, God blessed and restored him with six more children, a beautiful home, and a flourishing ministry. God also told him that 100 angels had been detailed to accompany him wherever he went in the world.

Humanitarian Works and Social Impact

Medical Missions

For more than 30 years, Rev Ukpai’s ministry ran comprehensive medical outreaches across Nigerian communities, integrating healthcare with evangelism. He established two major medical facilities:

Uma Ukpai Eye Centre – A specialized facility dedicated to treating eye conditions and restoring sight to many Nigerians.

King of Kings Hospital – A hundred-bed specialist hospital in Abia State that serves communities in Abia, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River States, providing free and subsidized medical care.

As Chairman of King of Kings Medical Outreach International Inc., he ensured that healthcare reached the most vulnerable members of society.

Educational Institutions

Rev Ukpai was passionate about education and established several institutions to train and empower young people:

Uma Ukpai School of Theology and Biblical Studies, Uyo – Training the next generation of ministers and Christian leaders.

Uma Ukpai Polytechnic, Asaga – Providing technical and vocational education to students.

Uma Ukpai Scholarship Foundation – Supporting students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their educational dreams.

Joseph Business School – An affiliate of Joseph Business School in Chicago, USA, focusing on Christian entrepreneurship.

Wealth Creation and Empowerment

Understanding that poverty was a major challenge facing Christians, Rev Ukpai and his wife launched the Uma Ukpai Sustainable Wealth Creation initiative. This program aimed to liberate Christians from poverty and help them achieve financial independence.

The wealth creation empowerment scheme included:

• Ambassadors: Received ₦1 million
• Governors: Received ₦500,000 each
• Pilots: Received ₦300,000 each
• Soldiers: Received ₦200,000 each

In 2023, 11 young female fashion designers received ₦100,000 each with a sewing machine, while the overall winner of Uma Ukpai’s Fashion Week received ₦1 million cash. About 125 participants were also trained by business leaders and experts in multiple business initiatives.

Net Worth and Financial Legacy

Rev Uma Ukpai was estimated to be worth approximately $50 million at the time of his death. However, his true wealth wasn’t measured in monetary terms but in the millions of lives he touched, the institutions he built, and the lasting impact of his ministry.

His financial resources were primarily invested in:

• Building hospitals and medical centers
• Establishing educational institutions
• Supporting evangelistic crusades
• Empowering Christians through wealth creation programs
• Advancing the gospel globally

Unlike many prosperity preachers, Rev Ukpai’s lifestyle reflected humility and a genuine concern for the poor, stemming from his own experiences of poverty in childhood.

Achievements and Recognition

International Recognition

Rev Ukpai received numerous accolades and recognitions throughout his ministry:

First African Main Speaker – World Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International (FGBMFI) World Convention 1996 in Miami, USA.

Amsterdam ’93 Participant – He was a speaker at the prestigious Billy Graham Evangelistic Association event and co-authored “The Work of An Evangelist” with Billy Graham and other Christian leaders.

International Ministry Partnerships – He shared platforms with globally renowned evangelists including Reinhard Bonnke, Morris Cerullo, and Benny Hinn.

Books and Publications

Rev Ukpai authored over 14 books covering various aspects of Christian faith, spiritual warfare, healing, and deliverance. His teachings remain widely distributed through books, audio messages, and recorded sermons.

Media Ministry

His training in journalism and television equipped him with strong media presence, which he used effectively for evangelism. He conducted a television ministry for many years, reaching millions who couldn’t attend his physical crusades.

Legacy and Impact

Spiritual Influence

Rev Uma Ukpai’s impact on Christianity in Nigeria and Africa cannot be overstated. He was:

A Bridge Builder – Known for uniting Christians across denominational divides, earning respect from Pentecostal, Evangelical, and Mainline churches.

A Mentor of Ministers – Many prominent Nigerian preachers trace their spiritual inspiration and early mentorship to his ministry.

A Faith General – His consistent message of faith, healing, and hope inspired generations of believers throughout his six decades of ministry.

Institutional Legacy

The institutions he founded continue to operate and serve communities:

• UUEA continues its evangelistic work
• His hospitals provide healthcare to thousands
• His schools train students and ministers
• His scholarship foundation supports education

Family and Continuity

Rev Ukpai is survived by his wife, Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, his children, grandchildren, and a vast spiritual family determined to continue the vision he birthed. His family has pledged to maintain his legacy and advance the work he started.

Death and Celebration of Life

Rev Dr. Uma Ukpai passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80 in Lagos, Nigeria. His family announced his passing in a statement titled “Glorious Transition,” celebrating his triumphant homegoing.

The statement read: “With hearts full of gratitude, we celebrate the triumphant homegoing of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who passed on to glory on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80. A faithful soldier of the cross has been called to rest. Dedicating over six decades of his life to fiery evangelism, dynamic teaching of the Word, and prophetic demonstrations of the power of God, he impacted millions of lives and transformed destinies within Nigeria and across the globe.”

National Mourning

His death was mourned by Christian leaders across Nigeria. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), led by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described him as “a towering figure in the Church in Nigeria whose ministry touched millions through crusades, teachings, and acts of charity.”

State governors, religious leaders, and thousands of believers expressed their condolences, testifying to the profound impact he had on their lives.

Lessons from His Life

Faith Through Adversity

Rev Ukpai’s life demonstrated that God can use our greatest tragedies as stepping stones to our destiny. From losing his father at 10 to losing two children in one day, he showed that faith can triumph over the most devastating circumstances.

Compassion for the Poor

His early experiences with poverty shaped his lifelong commitment to helping the less privileged through medical outreaches, scholarships, and wealth creation programs.

Unity in the Body of Christ

As a bridge builder among denominations, he showed that Christians can work together despite theological differences, focusing on the central message of salvation through Jesus Christ.

Perseverance in Ministry

For over 60 years, from his conversion in 1958 until his death in 2025, he remained active in spreading the gospel, demonstrating unwavering commitment to his calling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When and where was Rev Uma Ukpai born?

Rev Uma Ukpai was born on January 7, 1945, in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State, Nigeria, and passed away on October 6, 2025, at age 80.

2. Who was Rev Uma Ukpai’s wife?

Rev Uma Ukpai was married to Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, also a minister of the gospel, and their marriage lasted over 40 years until his death.

3. How many children did Rev Uma Ukpai have?

Rev Uma Ukpai had eight biological children and one adopted child (nine children total), though he tragically lost two children in a car accident on the same day.

4. What was Rev Uma Ukpai’s net worth?

Rev Uma Ukpai was estimated to be worth approximately $50 million, primarily invested in hospitals, schools, crusades, and humanitarian projects.

5. What is Rev Uma Ukpai’s most significant achievement?

His most significant achievement was being a founding father of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), which was birthed from his Greater Lagos for Christ Crusade in 1985.

6. When did Rev Uma Ukpai die and what was the cause?

Rev Uma Ukpai died peacefully on October 6, 2025, at age 80 in Lagos; his family announced it as a “glorious transition” without specifying the cause of death.

7. What institutions did Rev Uma Ukpai establish?

He established Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, Uma Ukpai Polytechnic, Uma Ukpai School of Theology, Uma Ukpai Eye Centre, King of Kings Hospital, and Uma Ukpai Scholarship Foundation.

8. What was Rev Uma Ukpai’s first miracle?

His first miracle was commanding a mad man named “Deco” to roll out of his school when he was a young student, which launched his ministry and confirmed his calling.

9. What role did Rev Uma Ukpai play in PFN?

He was a founding father of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), served as National Vice President, National Chairman of Think-Tank Committee, and UUEA was a major financier of PFN.

10. What is Rev Uma Ukpai’s legacy?

His legacy includes millions of souls saved, the establishment of PFN, numerous educational and medical institutions, over 14 books, mentorship of ministers, and six decades of transformative evangelistic ministry across the world.