Nigeria’s Christian community is mourning the passing of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, one of the country’s most influential evangelists, who went home to be with the Lord at the age of 80.
According to family sources and multiple media reports, Evangelist Ukpai passed away on Sunday, October 6, 2025, after a brief illness. The news has sent waves of emotion across churches, ministries, and believers both in Nigeria and abroad.
A Life Dedicated to God’s Work
Born on January 7, 1945, in Asaga Ohafia, Abia State, Dr. Uma Ukpai devoted over six decades of his life to spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. He was the founder and president of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), an interdenominational outreach ministry headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Through crusades, revivals, and healing conventions, Rev. Ukpai became a household name across Africa — known for his fiery preaching, deep compassion, and commitment to unity within the body of Christ.
He was also the Visioner of Uma Ukpai Polytechnic and Uma Ukpai School of Theology, both aimed at raising the next generation of Christian leaders equipped for ministry and nation-building.
A Ministry of Impact and Miracles
Over the years, the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association reached millions through large-scale crusades, particularly the “Greater Ohafia for Christ” and “Akwa Ibom for Christ” outreaches. His ministry focused not only on salvation but also on healing, deliverance, and humanitarian aid.
Many Nigerians remember him for his strong emphasis on faith, holiness, and purpose. His messages often centered on the belief that “a life without Christ is a life without direction.”
Tributes Pour In
Following the announcement of his passing, tributes have continued to flood in from prominent religious and national figures.
Leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) described Ukpai as “a spiritual father who mentored generations and exemplified humility in leadership.”
Social media platforms have also been filled with messages of condolence, as followers and admirers recount personal testimonies of healing and inspiration through his ministry.
A Legacy That Lives On
Beyond his ministry, Dr. Ukpai established numerous community initiatives, including scholarship programs, hospitals, and skill acquisition centers. His humanitarian work extended to supporting widows, orphans, and the less privileged — reflecting his conviction that true faith must produce tangible love.
His wife, Dr. Philomena Ukpai, and their children continue to oversee aspects of his ministry, ensuring that his vision of evangelism, education, and empowerment endures
Funeral Arrangements
The family of the late evangelist is expected to release details of his funeral arrangements in the coming days. The Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association has urged Christians across Nigeria to remember the family in prayers and to honor his memory by continuing the work of soul-winning he championed.