Renowned Nigerian Evangelist Rev. Uma Ukpai Passes Away at 80

By Emmanuel Kwada

The Christian community in Nigeria and beyond mourns the loss of Rev. Uma Ukpai, the revered founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, who passed away on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80. His family, in a heartfelt statement released on Monday, described his passing as a “glorious transition” from a life of unwavering service to eternal rest, a reflection of the hope and faith he championed throughout his life.

Rev. Ukpai was no ordinary man. For over six decades, he poured his heart and soul into spreading the gospel, touching millions of lives with his dynamic preaching, prophetic insights, and a ministry rooted in love and compassion.

From the dusty roads of rural Nigeria to global platforms, his fiery evangelistic campaigns and transformative teachings inspired generations, earning him a place as one of Nigeria’s most influential spiritual leaders.

“He was a faithful soldier of the cross,” his family said, their words heavy with both grief and gratitude. “He 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.”

Born in 1945, Rev. Ukpai’s journey was one of purpose and perseverance. His ministry wasn’t just about preaching; it was about action—building churches, empowering clergy and lay leaders, and spearheading humanitarian efforts that brought hope to the marginalized.

His work through the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association transformed communities, from establishing educational initiatives to providing aid to those in need. To many, he was a beacon of God’s power, a man whose life embodied the biblical truth of Philippians 1:21: “To live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

But beyond the pulpit, Rev. Ukpai was a family man, deeply cherished as a loving husband, devoted father, and a mentor to countless individuals who looked to him for guidance in both faith and life. Those close to him remember his warmth, his laughter, and the way he made everyone feel seen and valued.

“He wasn’t just a preacher,” said a longtime associate. “He was a father to so many of us, always ready to listen and guide.”

The family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from across the world, noting that while they grieve his physical absence, they find comfort in knowing he “finished his race and is now resting in eternal praise.” Details of his funeral arrangements will be shared in the coming days, they added.

As news of Rev. Ukpai’s passing spreads, tributes have poured in from all corners—church leaders, community members, and ordinary people whose lives were touched by his ministry. His legacy, built on faith, compassion, and an unshakable commitment to God’s work, will continue to ripple through Nigeria and beyond, a testament to a life well-lived.

In a world often marked by division, Rev. Uma Ukpai’s life reminds us of the power of faith to unite, heal, and inspire. His voice may be silent now, but his message of hope and love will echo for generations to come.