Renowned Nigerian evangelist, Reverend Uma Ukpai, the esteemed founder and president of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), has passed away at the age of 80. His family announced his glorious transition on a Monday, confirming that he died on October 6. Described as a "faithful soldier of the cross" and a "spiritual general," Rev. Ukpai dedicated over six decades of his life to spreading the gospel, impacting millions across Nigeria, Africa, and beyond.

Rev. Ukpai's ministry was characterized by fiery evangelistic campaigns, dynamic teaching, and prophetic demonstrations of God's power. He was widely regarded as one of Nigeria's foremost faith leaders and a revered father of Pentecostalism in the country. Through his crusades, healing services, and humanitarian projects, he touched countless lives. Notable initiatives under his leadership included the Uma Ukpai Eye Centre, King of Kings Hospital (a specialist hospital in Abia State), and the Uma Ukpai School of Theology.

His profound impact is evident in the testimonies of many, including gospel singer Frank Edwards, who recounted being healed of asthma and pneumonia at age eight during one of Rev. Ukpai's crusades in Enugu. Even in the face of personal tragedies, such as the loss of two children in an accident, Rev. Ukpai remained steadfast in his service through faith-based and educational programmes.

Leading figures in the Christian community, such as Enoch Adeboye, the general overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, expressed deep admiration for Rev. Ukpai. Adeboye shared how Rev. Ukpai provided strength during the darkest moment of his life, following the passing of his son, calling him "extremely special" and a source of inspiration. Several gospel ministers, including Nathaniel Bassey and Moses Bliss, have also taken to social media to honor his enduring legacy.

Born in 1945 and from Ohafia in Abia State, Rev. Ukpai spent most of his adult life in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where the UUEA is headquartered. His 80th birthday, celebrated on January 7, saw followers gift him N80 million, and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno lauded him as "God's gift to Akwa Ibom State." His life was a testament to God’s power and love, reflecting the scripture Philippians 1:21: “To live is Christ, and to die is gain.” The family has stated that details regarding his funeral arrangements will be announced in due course, as they find comfort in the belief that he has "finished his race and is now resting in eternal praise."