The family of globally respected evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, has officially confirmed his passing. In a statement released Monday and titled “Glorious Transition,” the family announced that Rev. Dr. Ukpai passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80.
The statement, which captures the spirit and impact of his remarkable life, reads in full:
“Glorious Transition
With hearts full of gratitude, we celebrate the triumphant homegoing of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who passed on to glory on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80. A faithful soldier of the cross has been called to rest.
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.
He was a spiritual general known for evangelism, a founding father of faith, a loving husband, a devoted father, and a mentor to many, and his life was a testament to God’s power and love.
While we mourn his physical absence, we rejoice that he has finished his race and is now resting in eternal praise. Details of the obsequies will be announced in due course by the family.
We are grateful to God for his extraordinary life and enduring legacy.
For indeed, ‘To live is Christ, and to die is gain.’ — Phil. 1:21.”
Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai was widely regarded as one of Africa’s foremost Christian evangelists and spiritual leaders. Born in Nigeria, his ministry spanned continents and touched millions of lives through crusades, conferences, and media broadcasts.
A towering figure in modern Pentecostalism, Ukpai’s signature blend of deep biblical teaching, prophetic insight, and passionate altar calls left lasting impressions wherever he ministered. His evangelistic campaigns were often marked by testimonies of healing, salvation, and spiritual revival, with stadiums filled to capacity and cities reportedly transformed by the reach of his message.
At the center of his work was the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Under his leadership, the ministry became a force in shaping Christian thought, outreach, and discipleship not only in Nigeria but across Africa and the wider global Christian community.
Rev. Ukpai’s influence extended well beyond the pulpit. He was a social reformer, education advocate, and philanthropist. Through faith-based initiatives, he championed causes such as youth empowerment, healthcare, and education. Institutions founded by his ministry were dedicated to developing leaders and providing practical support to underserved communities.
His teachings emphasized a life of holiness, spiritual warfare, and unwavering faith in the power of God to heal, deliver, and restore. For many, Rev. Ukpai was not only a preacher but a father figure, mentor, and spiritual authority whose counsel guided both individuals and entire congregations.
Throughout his decades of ministry, he worked alongside other Christian luminaries, both locally and internationally. He shared platforms with globally renowned figures such as Reinhard Bonnke, Morris Cerullo, and Benny Hinn. His name became synonymous with revival and power evangelism, earning him a revered place in global Christian circles.
Tributes have begun pouring in from religious leaders, politicians, and admirers worldwide. Archbishop Margaret Idahosa of the Church of God Mission described him as “a lion of the faith, whose roar will echo through generations.” Nigerian President Bola Tinubu called him “a national treasure whose voice brought hope and healing to millions.” Social media has been flooded with personal testimonies from individuals who credit his ministry with healing, spiritual transformation, and purpose.
In private life, Rev. Ukpai was described by those close to him as deeply loving, humble, and committed to his family. He is survived by his wife, Pastor Philomena Ukpai, his children and grandchildren, and a vast spiritual family determined to continue the vision he birthed.
Though plans for his burial have not yet been publicly released, the family assured that details of the obsequies would be announced in due course. A large-scale celebration of life is anticipated, likely to draw mourners and admirers from around the globe.
Despite his passing, many believe that the impact of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai will continue to shape lives and ministries for generations to come. His teachings remain widely distributed through books, audio messages, and recorded sermons, while the institutions he founded stand as living testaments to his legacy.
As the Christian world comes to terms with the loss of one of its most dynamic and enduring voices, the words from the family’s tribute strike a resonant chord: “We are grateful to God for his extraordinary life and enduring legacy.”
Indeed, in the words of the apostle Paul that the family quoted: “To live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai’s race may be finished, but his mission lives on.
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