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Popular preacher and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, Dr. Uma Ukpai, has died.

He was 80.

Born in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State, Ukpai rose from humble beginnings, overcoming early challenges to answer the divine call that later defined his life and impacted generations.

Through decades of evangelical work, he became a household name in Nigeria’s Pentecostal movement, renowned for his fiery preaching and mass crusades that drew hundreds of thousands.

A statement announcing his passing by his family said the cleric died on October 6.

The statement reads: “With hearts full of gratitude, we celebrate the triumphant home-going of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai… He was a spiritual general known for evangelism, a founding father of faith, a loving husband, devoted father, and mentor to many.

“While we mourn his physical absence, we rejoice that he has finished his race and is now resting in eternal praise.”

The statement said details of his obsequies would be announced by the family in due course.

He is survived by a wife, children, and a global community of followers.

Also, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid a glowing tribute to the late Dr. Ukpai.

The President described the revered preacher as “one of God’s generals” whose life and ministry brought revival, peace, and humanitarian service to Nigeria and beyond.

In a tribute yesterday in Abuja, President Tinubu noted that the passing of Dr. Ukpai, founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association and co-founder of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), marked the end of a glorious chapter in Nigeria’s Christian history.

“With a heavy heart, I mourn the passing of one of God’s generals, Dr. Uma Ukpai. Reverend Ukpai was not just another preacher; he was an anointed crusader of the faith, filled with fire and ice for the gospel and restoring humanity to discipline, love, and good neighbourliness,” the President said.

President Tinubu recalled some of Ukpai’s historic crusades, including the Greater Ibadan for Christ crusade in 1982 and the Greater Lagos for Christ crusade in 1985, describing them as “phenomenal events in proportion and impact” that fueled the wave of spiritual revival across Nigeria and parts of Africa in the 1980s.

“Dr. Ukpai’s mission was clearly to unite the Christian fold and different faiths, and to spread peace and harmony. He was a builder—building men and bridges linking different faiths, people, tongues, and tribes,” the President noted.

Beyond the pulpit, the President lauded Ukpai’s humanitarian works, including the establishment of schools, hospitals, and charities to serve the underprivileged.

“Dr. Ukpai has fulfilled his divine mission and has gone to be with the Lord. He fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith,” the President added.

President Tinubu extended his condolences to the deceased’s wife, Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, their children, and members of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, urging them to find comfort in the preacher’s enduring legacy of faith and service.

“May God Almighty grant him eternal rest,” the President prayed.

Also, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) described the late Uma Ukpai as a renowned evangelist, teacher, and servant of God.

A statement by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said: “The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has received with sadness the news of the passing of Reverend Dr Uma Ukpai, a renowned evangelist, teacher, and servant of God, who went to be with the Lord on 6 October 2025 at the age of 80.

“Through crusades, teachings, and acts of charity, he devoted his life to preaching the gospel, nurturing faith, and advancing the cause of Christ across denominations and regions.

“His unwavering commitment to the work of God and his passion for the salvation of souls left an enduring mark on the Christian community in Nigeria and beyond. Generations of believers have been inspired by his message of faith, healing, and hope in Christ Jesus.

“On behalf of the leadership and members of the Christian Association of Nigeria, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Reverend Dr (Mrs) Philomena Uma Ukpai, the entire Ukpai family, the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, and the Christian community in Nigeria and abroad who have been touched by his ministry.

“We pray that the Almighty God will comfort the family and grant them the strength to bear this great loss. May the legacy of his faith and service continue to inspire the Church and the nation. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”

Also, Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo expressed sorrow over Dr. Ukpai’s passing.

In a condolence message by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, the governor described the death of the legendary preacher, renowned evangelist as a monumental loss to Nigeria, and the entire body of Christ worldwide.

“Rev. Dr. Ukpai was not just a preacher; he was a pivotal institution in Christian evangelism, national uprightness, and the Nigerian Pentecostal movement.

“For decades, his powerful voice echoed across continents, bringing salvation, healing, and hope to millions of people.

“The story of modern Christianity in Nigeria and across Africa cannot be complete without the indelible impact of Rev. Ukpai, through his crusades, theological teachings and establishment of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association dedicated to winning souls for Christ.”