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.

Through his teachings, medical missions, and educational projects, Dr. Ukpai continues to shape lives and inspire a generation of believers committed to the holistic gospel — one that meets both spiritual and physical needs.