It is a higher ecclesiastical institute of the Catholic Church and remains the leading theological facility in West Africa.
[1] Established in 1981, the institute opened its doors with 8 students, 8 academic and administrative staff with Monsignor Stephen Ezeanya as its first rector.
According to the institution's website, the Catholic Institute of West Africa has "assisted thousands of students in discovering and nurturing their call to Christian service, gaining a deeper understanding of Christianity and religion, and its role in a changing world."
These departments include: The institute has well-equipped libraries at both Port Harcourt and Obehie campuses.
The CIWA Main Library in Port Harcourt is managed by a committee, two professional librarians and three assistants.