President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of the esteemed evangelist, Dr. Uma Ukpai, honoring him as a devoted servant of both God and humanity whose life exemplified unwavering faith, empathy, and dedication to fostering national unity.
In a statement personally endorsed on Monday, President Tinubu described the late Dr. Ukpai as “more than a preacher; he was a spiritual warrior, passionately committed to spreading the gospel and restoring society through discipline, love, and neighborly kindness.”
Dr. Uma Ukpai, the visionary founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association and a foundational figure in the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), passed away at the age of 80.
The President highlighted Dr. Ukpai’s pivotal role in igniting the revival movement that swept across Nigeria and parts of Africa during the 1980s. He fondly recalled landmark crusades that defined his ministry and attracted millions to Christianity.
“I vividly remember his Greater Ibadan for Christ Crusade in 1982 and the Greater Lagos for Christ Crusade in 1985-two monumental gatherings that left a lasting spiritual impact,” Tinubu remarked. “He was a fervent advocate and a unifier whose mission was to bridge divides within the Christian community, reinforce faith, and promote peace and cohesion nationwide.”
The President also praised Dr. Ukpai’s extensive humanitarian contributions, noting his establishment of numerous charitable organizations, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities aimed at uplifting marginalized communities.
“Dr. Ukpai was not merely a messenger of the Word but a man of action,” Tinubu emphasized. “He built bridges-connecting diverse faiths, cultures, languages, and ethnic groups. Having fulfilled his divine calling, he has now returned to the Lord.
He ran his race with perseverance, fought valiantly, and remained steadfast in faith.”
Offering condolences to the bereaved family, the President encouraged them to draw strength from Dr. Ukpai’s enduring legacy-a legacy rooted in faith, service, and compassion for humanity.
“I extend heartfelt sympathies to his wife, Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, their children, and the entire Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association. May they find peace in the knowledge that his life was one worthy of admiration and emulation,” he said.
President Tinubu prayed for God’s eternal rest for the departed evangelist and for resilience for his family, the Christian community, and all Nigerians as they mourn this profound loss.
“Dr. Uma Ukpai was a chosen vessel through whom God touched countless lives and shaped many souls. His influence will resonate for generations to come,” the President concluded.
Tributes have poured in from various sectors following the passing of Rev. (Dr.) Uma Ukpai, founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, with many lauding his pioneering spirit and unwavering courage in preaching the gospel boldly wherever he went. Prayers for his peaceful rest have been widely offered.
The internationally recognized evangelist, who was based in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, died on October 6, 2025. The cause of death remains undisclosed.
In a family statement, it was expressed: “With hearts full of gratitude, we celebrate the triumphant homegoing of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who transitioned to glory on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80.”
He devoted over sixty years to passionate evangelism, dynamic biblical teaching, and powerful prophetic demonstrations of God’s might.
Born in Ohafia, Abia State, Dr. Ukpai profoundly influenced millions, transforming lives across Nigeria and internationally throughout his ministry.
“He was a spiritual commander renowned for his evangelistic zeal, a founding pillar of faith, a loving husband, a dedicated father, and a mentor to many. His life bore witness to God’s power and love,” the statement added.
“While we grieve his physical departure, we rejoice that he has completed his earthly journey and now rests in eternal worship.”
The family expressed gratitude for his remarkable life and lasting legacy, promising to announce funeral arrangements in due course.
Dr. Ukpai once shared that his calling to evangelism came at age 12 after meeting the late Akanu Ibiam, former governor of the defunct Eastern Region, in Bori, Rivers State.
During one of his annual January 1 Solemn Assemblies in that community, he noted having preached in nearly every country worldwide, including Russia.
Known for his association with miraculous healings, Dr. Ukpai founded King of Kings Hospital and Uma Ukpai University (formerly Umu Ukpai Polytechnic) in Asaga Ohafia, among other institutions.
