IDNN Faith & Society Desk
Nigeria’s Christian community has been thrown into mourning following the death of renowned evangelist and spiritual leader, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association.
His family confirmed the development in a statement on Monday, saying the revered preacher “passed into glory” on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80.
“He was a faithful soldier of the cross who devoted his life to spreading the gospel with passion and integrity. His teachings, prophetic insights, and mentorship have left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire believers for years to come,” the family said.
The Passing of a Spiritual General
Born in 1945, Uma Ukpai rose to prominence as one of Nigeria’s pioneering evangelists, known for his fiery crusades, miracles, and interdenominational outreach that bridged divides across the Christian faith.
For more than six decades, his ministry spanned continents — from Nigeria and West Africa to Europe and North America — inspiring countless believers through his dynamic preaching and charismatic healing campaigns.
He founded several faith-based initiatives, including the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association and Uma Ukpai Polytechnic, focusing on spiritual empowerment, education, and humanitarian work.
| FAITH & LEGACY BOX
🔹 60+ years in full-time ministry across 40 nations
🔹 Hosted over 500 crusades and faith conferences
🔹 Mentored over 2,000 pastors and church leaders globally
🔹 Established humanitarian projects for widows and students
🔹 Author of “The Power of Faith” and “Living by the Word” series
RIPPLE | Faith Legacy Pulse
Ukpai’s death marks the end of an era for Nigeria’s evangelical movement — a generation of revivalists whose ministries birthed today’s Pentecostal wave. His prophetic and healing ministries not only shaped the country’s spiritual identity but also influenced Christian media, education, and humanitarian outreach.
As messages of condolence flood in from church leaders across Africa, Ukpai’s passing is being described as a “home call of a spiritual general.” Many regard his life as proof that the Nigerian church has become a global force.
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