Nigeria Mourns as Renowned Evangelist Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai Passes On at 80
Nigeria’s Christian community and millions of believers around the world are mourning the passing of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who went to be with the Lord on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80.
A statement from the family described his transition as “a triumphant homegoing of a faithful soldier of the cross.” The family expressed deep gratitude to God for a life of extraordinary impact, dedication, and unwavering faith.
For more than six decades, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai stood as a towering figure in Christian ministry — known for his fiery evangelism, dynamic teaching of the Word, and prophetic demonstrations of the power of God. His crusades and outreaches reached millions, transforming lives and destinies across Nigeria, Africa, and beyond.
He was the founder and president of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, a global ministry focused on soul-winning, healing, and empowerment. Beyond the pulpit, he was also a loving husband, devoted father, mentor to countless ministers, and a spiritual general whose voice echoed with authority and compassion.
Tributes have poured in from church leaders, public figures, and Christian organizations, all describing Dr. Ukpai as a “founding father of faith” and “a true general in God’s army.” Many recalled his humility, unwavering belief in prayer, and commitment to raising new generations of ministers.
While the nation mourns his physical absence, the family says they rejoice that he has “finished his race and is now resting in eternal praise.” Details of his funeral arrangements and celebration of life will be announced in due course.
In the words of Scripture he so often quoted, “To live is Christ, and to die is gain.” — Philippians 1:21.