Nigeria’s highly respected evangelist and Christian leader, Dr. Uma Ukpai, has gone to be with the Lord at the age of 80.

According to a report by Church Gist, the revered preacher passed away in Lagos, drawing the curtain on a life marked by unwavering faith, passionate service, and profound spiritual influence.

Dr. Ukpai, a founding father of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), was also the founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, an interdenominational ministry known for its large-scale crusades, leadership training, and humanitarian outreach across Nigeria and beyond.

Fondly remembered as “a beacon of light and a vessel of divine inspiration,” Dr. Ukpai dedicated decades of his life to spreading the gospel, mentoring Christian leaders, and fostering unity within the body of Christ.

Since the news of his passing broke, tributes have been pouring in from church leaders, Christian organizations, and followers across the nation, celebrating his enduring legacy of evangelism, faith, and compassion.

“Rest in eternal glory, God’s elect,” Church Gist wrote in its heartfelt tribute, honoring a man whose ministry touched countless lives and strengthened the faith of many.

Born in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai rose from humble beginnngs to become one of the most respected evangelists in Nigeria. Through the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, founded in the 1970s, he spearheaded numerous crusades and revival meetings that drew massive crowds across Africa, Europe, and North America.

His messages of salvation, healing, and national unity resonated with people of all backgrounds, cutting across denominational lines. In several cities, from Lagos to London, his programs were known to attract both the poor and powerful, with testimonies of miraculous healings and life-changing encounters