- Rev. Uma Ukpai passed away on 6 October 2025 at the age of 80, following over 60 years of dedicated ministry and evangelism across Nigeria and abroad
- He founded the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association and played a key role in the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, uniting churches nationwide
- He established schools, hospitals, and scholarship schemes, impacting thousands through education, healthcare, and humanitarian outreach
Nigeria has lost one of its most influential Christian leaders, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80. Widely revered for his passionate evangelism, transformative teachings, and decades of humanitarian work, Rev. Ukpai leaves behind a rich spiritual and social legacy.
In a statement released on Monday, the Ukpai family described him as a “faithful soldier of the cross,” whose life was a testament to God’s love and power.
“Dedicating over six decades of his life to fiery evangelism, dynamic teaching of the Word, and prophetic demonstrations of the power of God, he impacted millions of lives and transformed destinies within Nigeria and across the globe,” the statement read.
Early Life and Education
Born on January 7, 1945, in Asaga, Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, Uma Ukpai grew up in southeastern Nigeria, where he began his education. His academic journey took him from local institutions like the Uma Ukpai Memorial Primary School and Niger Delta Technical School to international studies in the UK and USA. He earned qualifications in Electrical Engineering, Journalism, and Divinity, including a Doctorate Degree in Divinity.
Evangelistic Ministry and Pentecostal Leadership
Rev. Ukpai was the founder and president of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), a non-denominational ministry headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Through UUEA, he hosted gospel crusades that drew large crowds and became known for miracles, healing, and soul-winning.
He was also a founding leader of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), playing a key role in the charismatic revival of the 1970s and 1980s. His leadership helped unify diverse Pentecostal churches under one spiritual vision, fostering collaboration and growth within the movement.
Humanitarian and Educational Contributions
Beyond his ministry, Rev. Ukpai was a passionate advocate for education and healthcare. He established several institutions, including:
- Uma Ukpai Polytechnic, Asaga
- Uma Ukpai School of Theology and Biblical Studies, Uyo
- Uma Ukpai Scholarship Foundation
- Uma Ukpai Eye Centre
- King of Kings Hospital, a specialist health facility serving parts of Abia, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River States.
These initiatives provided education and medical care to thousands, particularly in underserved communities.
Global Reach and Legacy
Rev. Ukpai’s ministry spanned continents, with evangelistic outreaches reaching audiences in Africa, Europe, and the Americas. His messages of faith, healing, and hope influenced generations of Christians and elevated Nigeria’s presence in the global evangelical community.
Family and Personal Life
He is survived by his wife, Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, a minister in her own right, and their children. The family, while mourning his physical absence, expressed joy that he has “finished his race and is now resting in eternal praise.”
A Life Well Lived
Rev. Uma Ukpai will be remembered not only as a spiritual general and teacher of faith, but also as a devoted husband, father, and mentor to countless individuals.
His life embodies the scripture: “To live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.