NIGERIA: Nigeria’s foremost evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), Rev. (Dr.) Uma Ukpai has passed away at the age of 80. The respected preacher, known for his fiery sermons and nationwide crusades, died on October 6, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and philanthropy that spanned over five decades.
Family members and close associates confirmed his passing in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where he had lived for much of his later years. According to sources close to the family, the revered cleric had been battling age-related ailments in the weeks leading up to his death. His transition, they said, was peaceful.
Ukpai’s death marks the end of an era for Nigeria’s Pentecostal movement. For decades, he was one of the country’s most recognisable Christian figures, a man whose name was synonymous with large evangelistic crusades, faith healing, and bold preaching across Africa and beyond.
Rev. Uma Ukpai’s ministry journey began in the 1970s when he founded the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), a non-denominational Christian organization focused on spreading the gospel through massive outreach programs, healing campaigns, and leadership training. Through the UUEA, Ukpai organised some of Nigeria’s largest Christian gatherings, drawing tens of thousands of worshippers from across the country. His crusades were known for passionate preaching and reports of miraculous healings that drew even skeptics to listen.
Over the years, his message centred on faith, forgiveness, and national unity. Ukpai was one of the few religious leaders who consistently emphasized peace and inter-ethnic harmony during Nigeria’s difficult political transitions. He often urged political leaders to embrace humility and servant leadership.
Born in 1945 in Asaga, Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, Uma Ukpai came from humble beginnings. He often shared stories of his early struggles including the loss of his parents at a young age and how his faith in God shaped his purpose. He studied Engineering but later dedicated his life fully to Christian ministry. Over the years, he earned several honorary doctorate degrees in Theology and Christian Leadership, recognizing his influence in global evangelism.
Rev. Ukpai was married to Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, his longtime partner in ministry. Together, they raised children and led numerous humanitarian initiatives through the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association’s charity arm, focusing on education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.
Ukpai’s evangelistic work was not limited to Nigeria. He preached in many African countries, Europe, and the United States, often partnering with other international evangelists. His annual “Uma Ukpai Miracle Convention” became one of Nigeria’s most anticipated Christian events, attracting thousands of people seeking spiritual renewal and healing. Many Christians across the country credit their faith journey or healing testimony to an encounter at one of his crusades. His ministry also produced several spiritual protégés who went on to establish their own churches and ministries.
In addition to evangelism, Ukpai established the Uma Ukpai College of Theology and Management Studies and the Uma Ukpai Eye Centre in Uyo, aimed at raising Christian leaders and providing free eye care services to the poor. These institutions reflected his belief that faith must be practical and compassionate.
Following news of his death, tributes have poured in from across Nigeria and beyond. President Bola Tinubu, in a condolence message, described Rev. Ukpai as “a beacon of faith whose voice inspired millions and whose ministry strengthened the moral fabric of the nation.” Similarly, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) hailed him as “a unifying voice who stood for righteousness and truth in public life.” In a statement, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh said, “Rev. Ukpai’s ministry touched lives across denominational lines and brought healing to broken souls.”
Governors, church leaders, and public figures from across the country also expressed shock and sadness at his passing, describing him as a father figure and a national spiritual pillar. Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, called him “a man of God who carried his cross with grace and preached the gospel without fear.”
Uma Ukpai will be remembered not only for his revival crusades but also for his practical teachings on integrity, faith, and service. He was known for his down-to-earth preaching style often combining humor, storytelling, and deep biblical insight. He frequently spoke against corruption and moral decay in public life, insisting that “a nation cannot rise above the character of its people.” His teachings encouraged Christians to be responsible citizens and to live out their faith through service.
Beyond the pulpit, Ukpai was a bridge-builder between generations. He mentored young pastors, supported gospel musicians, and helped emerging church leaders navigate ministry challenges. Many describe him as a man who gave freely without expecting recognition.
Plans for his burial are underway, according to family sources. The Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association has announced a week-long celebration of his life, beginning with a night of tributes in Uyo and concluding with a thanksgiving service in his hometown of Asaga, Abia State. In a brief statement, the UUEA said, “Our father has gone to be with the Lord. His life was a testimony of unwavering faith, tireless service, and love for humanity. Though he has departed, his message lives on.”
As the Christian community mourns his passing, many agree that Rev. Uma Ukpai’s influence will endure through the lives he touched, the souls he led to faith, and the institutions he built. At 80, Rev. (Dr.) Uma Ukpai had become more than a preacher; he was a movement, a symbol of faith in turbulent times, and a reminder that one life devoted to service can change a nation. In death, as in life, his message still echoes that “God is bigger than our fears” and that faith, when lived sincerely, can heal nations.
Business Day
