Renowned Evangelist Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai Passes On at 80: A Faithful Soldier of the Cross Goes Home

By Naija247news Editorial Team

Lagos — The global Christian community has been thrown into mourning following the passing of renowned international evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who reportedly went to be with the Lord on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80.

In a statement titled “Glorious Transition,” and signed by the family, the revered clergyman was described as “a faithful soldier of the cross” who devoted more than six decades of his life to evangelism, teaching, and the demonstration of the power of God through the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

“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,” the family wrote.

The statement continued:

“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. His life was a testament to God’s power and love.”

A pioneer in Nigeria’s modern Pentecostal movement, Rev. Ukpai’s ministry began in the early 1970s and expanded into a global outreach platform that drew multitudes to Christ through crusades, healing services, and televised broadcasts. From stadium crusades in Lagos and Port Harcourt to international missions across Africa, Europe, and North America, his message of faith and hope resonated with millions.

Beyond the pulpit, Rev. Ukpai was known for his emphasis on unity in the body of Christ and the need for moral leadership in Nigeria. He also invested heavily in education, charity, and leadership training, establishing institutions aimed at empowering young Christians and ministers of the Gospel.

While the family mourns his physical absence, they expressed gratitude to God for what they described as “a life poured out for the Kingdom.”

“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,” the family noted.

Concluding with a verse that captures the spirit of his life, the statement read:

“For indeed, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” — Philippians 1:21

Tributes have already begun to pour in from Christian leaders and congregations across Nigeria and beyond, celebrating Rev. Ukpai’s enduring legacy as a preacher of faith, a man of prayer, and one of the spiritual generals of his generation.

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Reporting by Ifeoluwa Okonkwo in Lagos, Nigeria.