Rev Dr. Uma Ukpai Is Dead

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, an international evangelist who is the founder and president of Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, is dead.

The Christian community in Nigeria and beyond has been thrown into deep reflection and gratitude following the passing of a renowned evangelist, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who went to be with the Lord on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80.

A revered servant of God, Rev. Dr. Ukpai was described as a faithful soldier of the cross, who dedicated over six decades of his life to preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ with uncommon passion. His ministry, known for fiery evangelism, prophetic teaching, and miraculous manifestations of the power of God, impacted millions of lives across nations and generations.

Fondly called a spiritual general and founding father of faith, the late preacher was not only a dynamic minister of the Word but also a loving husband, devoted father, mentor to many, and an embodiment of humility and compassion. His teachings, crusades, and humanitarian efforts left an indelible mark on both the spiritual and social landscape of Nigeria.

While his physical departure leaves a vacuum, his family expressed gratitude to God for his extraordinary life and enduring legacy.
In a statement signed by the family, they said:

“We celebrate the triumphant homegoing of our father, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai. He finished his race, and though we mourn his physical absence, we rejoice that he now rests in eternal praise. For indeed, ‘to live is Christ, and to die is gain’ (Philippians 1:21).”

According to the family, details of his funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai’s life remains a shining example of unwavering faith, purpose-driven service, and a lifetime spent advancing God’s kingdom on earth.

Uma is the founder and president of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. He turned 80 on 7 January.

Though from Asaga Ohafia in Ohafia LGA of Abia State, the late cleric had spent most of his adult life in Uyo, where he hosted hundreds of Christians to a life-impacting service every Wednesday at his Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association’s cathedral.

In January, his followers gifted Uma N80 million for his 80th birthday. Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State described him as “God’s gift to Akwa Ibom State” during the birthday celebration in Uyo.

Enoch Adeboye, the general overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, preached during the birthday celebration and narrated how he (adeboye) drew strength from Uma when he (Adeboye) lost his son.

Mr Adeboye had described his son’s passing as the “darkest moment” of his life.

Mr Adeboye said Uma is “extremely special” to him and the Christian community within and outside Nigeria.

He said he met the evangelist over 40 years ago at a “wonderful” crusade in Lagos and has followed his activities since then.

“If you see me kneeling down to worship God before I stand up here, I know that if I follow the footsteps of a great man like that… I think when I grow a little older, I will want to be like Uma Ukpai,” Mr Adeboye said, causing the audience to laugh out loud.

Mr Adeboye thanked God for Uma’s life of service and dedication.