The Christian community in Nigeria and beyond has been thrown into mourning following the passing of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, a globally respected evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, who went home to glory on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80.
In a statement issued by the family, Rev. Ukpai was described as “a faithful soldier of the cross” whose life and ministry spanned over six decades of “fiery evangelism, dynamic teaching of the Word, and prophetic demonstrations of the power of God.”
“We celebrate the triumphant homegoing of our beloved father, husband, and mentor, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai,” the family said. “He dedicated more than sixty years of his life to preaching the gospel, transforming lives, and spreading the message of salvation within Nigeria and across the globe.”
Known for his passionate style of preaching and healing crusades that drew thousands, Rev. Ukpai’s ministry left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s Christian landscape. He was widely regarded as one of the nation’s foremost evangelists and a key figure in the Pentecostal revival movement.
“He was not just a preacher but a spiritual general,” the statement continued. “A founding father of faith, loving husband, devoted father, and mentor to many, his life was a living testimony of God’s power and love.”
While the family expressed deep sorrow over his passing, they also spoke of gratitude and hope.
“Though we mourn his physical absence, we rejoice that he has finished his race and is now resting in eternal praise,” the family said. “We are grateful to God for his extraordinary life and enduring legacy.”
The family added that details of his funeral arrangements and obsequies would be announced in due course.
Quoting the words of the Apostle Paul, the statement concluded:
“For indeed, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” — Philippians 1:21
Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai is remembered as a trailblazer of Christian evangelism, whose message of faith, healing, and hope inspired generations.
