Popular Nigerian Evangelist Uma Ukpai Is Dead

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, a Nigerian evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), has died at the age of 80.

The UUEA, a non-denominational Christian ministry based in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, announced his death in a family statement released on Monday, confirming that he died on October 6, 2025.

Describing his death as a “glorious transition” from earthly service to eternal rest, the family said Uma Ukpai dedicated his entire life to preaching the gospel and transforming lives through faith.

“A faithful soldier has been called to rest,” the statement said, referring to Uma’s towering influence among Christians in Nigeria.

“Dedicating over six decades of his life to fiery evangelism, dynamic teaching of the Word, and prophetic demonstration 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, founding father of faith, loving husband, devoted father and mentor to many, and his life was a testament to God’s power and love.

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

The family also stated that funeral details and related arrangements will be announced in due course.

Born in Ohafia, Abia State, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai spent most of his adult life in Uyo, where he led weekly fellowship services that drew hundreds of worshippers to the UUEA cathedral. He turned 80 on January 7, 2025.

KanyiDaily recalls that in 2020, Reverend Uma Ukpai condemned secessionist groups agitating for the actualization of Biafra, saying they are ‘mad people’.