In 1989, she obtained the National Certificate of Education (NCE) in Mathematics and Biology from the Rivers State College of Arts and Science, Port Harcourt.

[5][6] Jonathan started her career as a teacher at the Stella Maris College, Port Harcourt and at the Sports Institute, Isaka.

Patience Jonathan felt sick about 10 days earlier, following her hosting of a summit of first ladies from across Africa.

[12][13] When the national media noticed her unusual disappearance from public view, the approach of her office was to initially deflect attention by denying she was in Germany to utilize the high-quality healthcare provision of the country.

Her spokesman, Ayo Osinlu, released a statement stating that she had only gone to Germany "to take time off to rest" and not for medical purposes.

She was involved in controversy during the crisis over 230 Chibok girls abducted by Boko Haram in north-east Nigeria.