History and Overview of Rhema University

 
Established in 2009, Rhema University stands as a private Christian institution nestled in the vibrant city of Aba, Abia State. Rooted in the vision of Living Word Ministries International, the university’s mission extends beyond imparting academic knowledge—it seeks to shape individuals who are morally sound, intellectually sharp, and spiritually grounded. The name “Rhema” signifies “the active word” or “the living word,” reflecting its philosophy of delivering education that speaks directly to the heart and head, preparing graduates to navigate life's challenges with purpose and integrity .

Rhema University is known for fostering a tranquil learning environment, balancing modern academic rigor with Christian values. Over the years, it has gained recognition for its quality teaching, research initiatives, and community engagement, all delivered through a philosophy of “head and heart” education .

##Official Website
For detailed and updated information on programs, admissions, research, and campus life, the university’s official platform—www.rhemauniversity.edu.ng—serves as the central gateway for prospective students, parents, and other stakeholders .

##Motto
The university’s guiding motto, “Equipping Humanity for Excellence,” underscores its dedication to holistic formation. The phrase encapsulates Rhema’s goal of nurturing not just academic competence, but also character, leadership, and service-mindedness .

##Founder
Rhema University was founded by Living Word Ministries International, under the leadership of Emmanuel O. Okorie. His vision to provide an institution grounded in Christian values, academic excellence, and practical relevance continues to shape the university’s ethos and strategic direction .

##History
The educational journey behind Rhema University began in 1987, when Emmanuel Okorie initiated a series of nursery, primary, and secondary schools under Living Word Ministries to address declining standards in education. In 2004, in response to oversubscription in public universities, the ministry began planning a private tertiary institution. By 2009, Rhema University received its formal operating license from the National Universities Commission and welcomed its first cohort of students .

Since its inception, the university has grown in academic depth and infrastructure. It transitioned from modest beginnings at its take-off campus on Aba–Owerri Road to establishing laboratories, research facilities, a teaching hospital, and even its own radio station—demonstrating a commitment to experiential and community-integrated education .

##Chancellor
At the helm of the university is Chancellor Emmanuel O. Okorie, the founder. His leadership spans ecclesial, educational, and developmental domains, guiding Rhema University with a blend of spiritual vision and operational insight .

##Vice Chancellor
Academic and administrative leadership is led by Professor O. C. Onwudike, who also brings experience from his previous roles as Vice Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture and Chair of the NUC’s Special Committee on Private Universities. Under his leadership, Rhema has expanded its academic offerings and maintained rigorous quality assurance standards .

##Accreditation and Recognition
Rhema University is officially licensed and institutionally accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) since 2009. Moreover, it has achieved numerous programmatic accreditations:

Nursing Science & Computer Science—received full NUC accreditation in 2023 .

Medicine & Surgery, Mass Communication, Accounting, Banking & Finance, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Human Anatomy, Biochemistry & Chemistry—all received full accreditation in June 2024 .

Pre-clinical Accreditation was granted to the College of Medicine by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria in October 2022—allowing Rhema University to conduct anatomy, physiology, and Part I professional examinations .


##Academic Structure and Facilities
Rhema University is structured into various colleges and backed by extensive infrastructure and learning resources:

College of Basic and Applied Sciences: Emphasizes disciplines like Computer Science, Biochemistry, and more .

College of Management and Social Sciences: Offers programs in Management, Mass Communication, Accounting, etc. .

College of Medicine and Health Sciences: Accredited for programs including Medicine & Surgery, Nursing, Medical Laboratory Science, Anatomy, Biochemistry, and Chemistry .

Research Laboratories: Fully equipped for research across Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Computer Science .

University Library: Offers both physical and virtual access to books, journals, and online resources .

University Farm: A practical space for agricultural entrepreneurship and student engagement with agri-based research .

Teaching Hospital: Equipped with emergency, surgical, and eye care units, with plans to expand dialysis and other tertiary care functions .

University Radio Station: Supports the Mass Communication program and enhances campus communication channels .


##Campus Life and Facilities
Operating from its urban take-off campus on Aba–Owerri Road, Rhema University provides modern student hostels, dining and shopping facilities, medical services, and a supportive campus community . The university strongly encourages moral living, compulsory on-campus residence, and participation in sports like football, basketball, and athletics—promoting a vibrant, wholesome campus environment .

##Notable Alumni
As of now, publicly documented information on standout alumni from Rhema University is limited. However, given its expanding academic offerings—especially in medical and communication fields—many of its graduates are beginning to forge impactful careers in healthcare, media, business, and public service. As the institution matures, recognition of its accomplished alumni is expected to grow.