The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Reverend Dr Uma Ukpai, describing him as ‘God’s General’ and reflecting on a lifetime of service that touched many within and beyond the Church.
Dr Ukpai, who died on 6 October 2025 at the age of 80, was known across Nigeria for his evangelistic missions, teachings, and charitable work that spanned over six decades. His calm voice, compassion, and efforts to reach people in times of need will be remembered by many in the years to come.
In a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the apex Christian body said the late cleric lived a life of faith and service devoted to the gospel and to strengthening the Christian community.
According to the statement, “Reverend Dr Ukpai was a towering figure in the Church in Nigeria whose evangelistic ministry spanned over six decades. 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.”
While acknowledging that Ukpai’s dedication to faith and concern for others had left a lasting impression on the lives of many Nigerians who encountered his ministry, CAN further said, “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.”
The Christian body extended condolences to his wife, Reverend Dr (Mrs) Philomena Uma Ukpai, and the wider Ukpai family while also acknowledging the grief of those within his ministry and congregations who had looked up to him for spiritual guidance over the years.
The statement said, “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”.
Praying for comfort and strength for the bereaved family to endure the irreparable loss, CAN said, “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.”
Reports had emerged early on Monday indicating that the renowned Nigerian Evangelist and Spiritual Leader of Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association passed on at the age of 80
A statement by the family described his passing as a “glorious transition” from a life of devoted service to eternal rest.
Widely regarded in Christian circles as a spiritual general and founding father of faith, Rev Ukpai dedicated more than six decades of his life to evangelism, dynamic teaching of the Word, and prophetic demonstrations of God’s power.
His ministry impacted millions of lives in Nigeria and around the world, shaping destinies and nurturing spiritual growth across generations.
The statement by his family said, “He was a faithful soldier of the cross who 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”.
Over the course of his ministry, Ukpai became known for his fiery evangelistic campaigns, transformative teachings, and commitment to empowering both clergy and lay leaders.
Beyond his spiritual work, he was also celebrated as a loving husband, devoted father, and mentor to countless individuals who regarded him as a guide in faith and life.
The family expressed gratitude for the life and work of Ukpai, highlighting that while they mourn his physical absence, they rejoice that he has “finished his race and is now resting in eternal praise.”
Ukpai’s ministry, spanning over sixty years, leaves behind a profound spiritual and social legacy, with churches, educational initiatives, and humanitarian efforts that continue to influence communities globally.
The family said his life was a testament to the biblical truth that “to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21).
In the course of his Christian work, Ukpai held many citywide crusades across Nigeria. Particularly etched in people’s memories is the annual crusade, Greater Ohafia For Christ Crusade, organised in collaboration with Dr Celestine Iwendi, a lecturer and the Pastor in charge at The Comfort Zone Ministries.
Also, he is credited with holding the Anioma One-million Man Crusade, 2016, where a lot of miracles, healing and deliverances took place; Nsukka 2012; and Greater Ibadan for Christ 1982. This is as available information confirmed that his Greater Lagos for Christ Crusade of 1985 gave birth to the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).
In terms of Medical outreaches, late Ukpai was the Chairman of Uma Ukpai Eye Centre, and King of Kings Hospital, a specialist hospital in Abia State that has been servicing communities in Abia, Akwa Ibom and Cross River States over the years.
Until his call to glory, Rev Ukpai was the proprietor of Uma Ukpai School of Theology and Biblical Studies, Uyo; Uma Ukpai Polytechnic Asaga; Uma Ukpai Scholarship Foundation and Joseph Business School, affiliate of Joseph Business School Chicago, USA.
He was married to Philomena, a pastor. Their marriage produced eight children and an adopted child. Ukpai lost two of his children in a car collision on the same day.
Meanwhile, the family has assured the public that details of his obsequies would be made known in due course.
