Nigeria and the global Christian community are mourning the passing of one of Africa’s most revered evangelists, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who transitioned to glory on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80.
Speaking to Symfoni correspondence on anonymity, an extended associate of the clergy confirmed his death, also noting that a certain prophet Joel based in Lagos, prophesied few months ago that Nigeria would lose a great man of God. He went on to acknowledge that Rev. Ukpai’s death could be the fulfillment of that prophecy.
In an official statement titled signed by the family, they expressed heartfelt gratitude to God for what they described as “a triumphant homegoing” of a faithful soldier of the cross who dedicated over six decades of his life to fiery evangelism, dynamic teaching of the Word, and prophetic demonstrations of God’s power.
Widely regarded as a spiritual general, Rev. Dr. Ukpai was the founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association and one of the pioneering voices in Nigeria’s Pentecostal revival movement. His ministry, which spanned continents, impacted millions and transformed countless lives through crusades, conferences, and outreach programmes.
Described as a founding father of faith, loving husband, devoted father, and mentor to many, Rev. Dr. Ukpai’s life was celebrated as a true testament to God’s power and love.
While the family and church community mourn his passing, they take solace in the belief that he “has finished his race and is now resting in eternal peace.”
Details of the funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
