Uma Ukpai Biography
Uma Ukpai was a well known Christian leader from Nigeria. He worked as an evangelist and preacher who touched many lives around the world. He grew up facing hard times but turned them into steps for success. His work focused on spreading the Christian faith, helping people through healing services, and building unity among churches. He started the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, which became a big part of his life. This group helped organize large meetings where people came to hear about God and see changes in their lives. Ukpai also played a key role in starting the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, a group that brings together many Pentecostal churches.
Over his long career, which lasted more than 60 years, Ukpai traveled to places in Africa, Europe, and the Americas. He spoke to crowds about faith, hope, and healing. Many people remember him for his strong messages and the way he helped the poor. His life shows how one person can make a big difference by staying true to their beliefs. Sadly, Ukpai passed away on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80. His family called it a peaceful move to eternal rest after a life full of service. This article looks at his story to help readers learn about his journey and find inspiration in it. We will cover his early days, schooling, work life, home life, successes, the reason for his passing, and some common questions.
Ukpai’s story reminds us that tough starts do not mean bad ends. He often said that problems can become chances to grow. For example, he shared, “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.” This mindset helped him connect with people from all walks of life. As we go through his biography, think about how his experiences can apply to your own path. His legacy lives on through the many lives he changed and the groups he built.
Uma Ukpai Early Life and Background
Uma Ukpai was born on January 7, 1945, in Asaga, a village in Ohafia, Abia State, Nigeria. He belonged to the Igbo ethnic group, which is common in the southeastern part of the country. His hometown was simple, with people living close to nature and family ties being strong. Growing up there shaped his views on community and hard work.
Life took a hard turn for young Ukpai when he was just 10 years old. His father passed away, leaving the family in a tough spot. This loss meant Ukpai had to step up early. He learned to handle duties that most kids his age did not face. It taught him about loss and strength. He once explained it by saying he became like a father figure at a young age. This event built his empathy for others in need.
In 1958, at age 13, Ukpai chose to follow Christianity. This choice changed his direction. It came during a time when he was dealing with family challenges. His new faith gave him hope and purpose. From then on, he felt a call to share this faith with others. His background in a rural area also made him value education and community help. These early years set the base for his later work in ministry and helping people.
Ukpai’s story from childhood shows how facing problems can lead to growth. He did not let his father’s death stop him. Instead, he used it to fuel his drive. Readers can learn from this that early hardships often build character. His life in Asaga also highlights the rich culture of the Igbo people, with their focus on family and resilience.
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Uma Ukpai Education
Ukpai placed a high value on learning from a young age. He started his schooling at Uma Ukpai Memorial Primary School in Asaga. After that, he went to Khana County Council School in Ogoni. These early schools gave him basic knowledge and skills.
For secondary education, he attended All Saints Secondary School in Aba. Then, he moved to Niger Delta Technical School, which is now called Boys Technical College, also in Aba. Here, he gained practical skills, including a certificate in Electrical Engineering Practice. This training showed his interest in hands on work.
Ukpai did not stop there. He went abroad to study more. He earned a Diploma in Journalism from the School of Journalism and Television in Frisham, Hermitage, United Kingdom. This helped him learn how to communicate well, which was useful in his preaching. In the United States, he studied at South Florida Christian College in Miami, Florida. He also attended Carolina Christian University and Burke Bible College in Kentucky. From these, he got a Bachelor Degree in Divinity and a Doctorate in Divinity.
His mix of technical, media, and religious studies made him well rounded. He used this knowledge to reach people through different ways, like writing and speaking. This education path shows how lifelong learning can open doors.
Uma Ukpai Career
Ukpai’s work life centered on ministry. In the 1970s, he founded the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, or UUEA. This group is non denominational, meaning it welcomes people from any Christian background. It is based in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Through UUEA, Ukpai organized big events called crusades. These were large gatherings where he preached about salvation, healing, and faith.
One key event was the Greater Lagos for Christ Crusade in 1985. This meeting helped start the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, or PFN. Ukpai was a founder and leader in PFN, serving as National Vice President and Chairman of a think tank group. PFN brings together Pentecostal churches to work as one. Other crusades included Greater Ibadan for Christ in 1982, Nsukka in 2012, and Anioma One Million Man Crusade in 2016. He also held yearly Greater Ohafia for Christ Crusades in his home area.
Ukpai’s ministry went beyond preaching. For over 30 years, UUEA ran medical outreaches to help the sick. He chaired the Uma Ukpai Eye Centre and King of Kings Hospital in Abia State. These places provide care to people in Abia, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River States. He also started schools like Uma Ukpai School of Theology and Biblical Studies in Uyo, and Uma Ukpai Polytechnic in Asaga. These focus on religious and practical education.
His career built bridges between churches and helped grow the Pentecostal movement in Nigeria. He traveled widely, sharing messages that inspired change. Ukpai’s work shows how faith can lead to real help for communities.
Uma Ukpai Marriage and Family Life
Ukpai married Philomena Uma Ukpai in 1975. She is also a pastor and supported his work. Their partnership was strong, with her helping in ministry tasks. Ukpai often spoke about how a good spouse makes things possible. He said, “When you marry a good wife, many things are possible.”
They had eight biological children and adopted one more. Family was important to Ukpai, even with his busy schedule. Sadly, he lost two children in a car accident on the same day. This was a deep pain, but he leaned on his faith to cope.
Philomena played a big role in keeping the home stable. She joined him in events and helped raise their kids with Christian values. Ukpai balanced his public work with private life by making time for family. His story teaches that strong relationships help in tough times.
Uma Ukpai Achievements
Ukpai had many successes in his life. Here is a list of some key ones:
- Founded Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association in the 1970s, which grew to reach millions through crusades and outreaches.
- Helped start the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria in 1985, uniting churches and shaping the movement.
- Organized major crusades, like the Anioma One Million Man Crusade in 2016, where many reported healings.
- Built healthcare facilities, including King of Kings Hospital and Uma Ukpai Eye Centre, serving thousands.
- Established educational places, such as Uma Ukpai Polytechnic and School of Theology, to train future leaders.
- Created Uma Ukpai Scholarship Foundation to help students with fees, showing his care for education.
- Affiliated with Joseph Business School in Chicago, USA, to teach business skills with faith.
- Mentored many pastors and leaders, leaving a network of inspired people.
- Conducted humanitarian work for over 30 years, focusing on medical help for the poor.
- Traveled globally, spreading messages that changed lives in Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
These achievements show his impact on faith, health, and learning. He turned his own struggles into ways to help others. His work earned him respect as a teacher and healer.
Uma Ukpai Cause of Death
Ukpai died on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80. His family shared the news on October 13, 2025. The cause was a stroke, as stated on his death certificate. Some reports also mentioned a brief illness before his passing. He was in Lagos at the time. His family called it a glorious transition after a life of service. Leaders like President Bola Tinubu paid tribute, noting his role in faith and unity. The Christian Association of Nigeria mourned him as a towering figure.
Conclusion
Uma Ukpai’s life was a model of faith and service. From his early loss to his global ministry, he showed resilience and kindness. His work in preaching, healing, and helping the needy left a strong mark. Though he passed on October 6, 2025, his legacy continues through UUEA, PFN, and the people he inspired. His story encourages us to turn challenges into opportunities. As he said, stones thrown at you can become stepping stones. Let his example guide you to live with purpose and help others.
FAQs
What was Uma Ukpai known for?
He was known as a Christian evangelist, preacher, and founder of Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association. He led crusades with reports of miracles and healings.
Where was Uma Ukpai from?
He was from Asaga, Ohafia, in Abia State, Nigeria.
Who was Uma Ukpai’s wife?
His wife was Philomena Uma Ukpai, a pastor who supported his ministry.
How many children did Uma Ukpai have?
He had eight biological children and one adopted child.
Is Uma Ukpai still alive?
No, he passed away on October 6, 2025.
How old was Uma Ukpai when he died?
He was 80 years old.
What was Uma Ukpai’s net worth?
His net worth is not publicly known, but his wealth was tied to his ministry and humanitarian projects, not personal gain.
What miracles was Uma Ukpai known for?
He was known for healings and deliverances during crusades, like in the Greater Lagos event in 1985.