It is with profound sorrow and eternal gratitude that the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA) announces the homegoing of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who transitioned to glory on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80. A devoted servant of God, Rev. Ukpai dedicated over six decades to fiery evangelism, dynamic teaching of the Word, and prophetic demonstrations of divine power, impacting millions of lives and transforming destinies across Nigeria and the globe.
Born on January 7, 1945, in Asaga, Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, Rev. Ukpai’s early life was marked by hardship. Orphaned at age 10 following his father’s death, he faced poverty and responsibility head-on, later reflecting that these trials shaped his empathy for the underprivileged. Converting to Christianity in 1958, he experienced a pivotal miracle at school, commanding a disruptive individual to leave in Jesus’ name, which ignited his calling. His education spanned Nigeria and abroad, earning a Certificate in Electrical Engineering, a Diploma in Journalism from the UK, and a Doctorate in Divinity from institutions in the USA.
Rev. Ukpai founded the UUEA in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, a non-denominational ministry that became a beacon for gospel outreach, medical programs, and education. He was instrumental in establishing the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) in 1986, following the landmark Greater Lagos for Christ Crusade in 1985, which mobilized thousands and fostered inter-denominational unity. His crusades, including the annual Greater Ohafia for Christ, the Anioma One-Million Man Crusade in 2016, and events in Nsukka, Ibadan, and beyond, were renowned for miracles—blind eyes opening, cripples walking, and lives redeemed. Internationally, he preached across Africa, Europe, and the Americas, smuggling Bibles into China and mentoring emerging leaders.
Beyond evangelism, Rev. Ukpai’s legacy includes founding the Uma Ukpai Polytechnic in Asaga, the Uma Ukpai School of Theology in Uyo, the Uma Ukpai Scholarship Foundation, and the Joseph Business School affiliate. He also established the Uma Ukpai Eye Centre and King of Kings Hospital in Abia State, providing specialist care to communities in Abia, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River States. Initiatives like the Sustainable Wealth Creation Empowerment Scheme empowered youth, particularly women, through skills training and business support.
Married to Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai since 1975, he was a loving husband and father to eight children and one adopted child, enduring the tragic loss of two sons in a car accident. His family remembers him as a “spiritual general, founding father of faith, and mentor to many,” whose life testified to God’s love and power. As he approached 80 in early 2025, Rev. Ukpai viewed it as “just the beginning,” with no plans to retire, and miracles continuing in his final programs.
“Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai has finished his race and now rests in eternal praise,” said a family spokesperson. “His unwavering faith, miraculous ministry, and commitment to the poor will inspire generations.”
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