President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Evangelist Uma Ukpai, describing him as a faithful servant of God who remained committed to his divine calling until his passing at the age of 80.
In a statement personally signed and released shortly after the announcement of the revered preacher’s death, Akpabio described the founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association as “God’s General” who not only preached the gospel around the world but also impacted lives through service to humanity.
“Today we mourn the passing of God’s General, Evangelist Uma Ukpai, whose transition has left the body of Christ and indeed humanity as a whole in a profound state of sadness,” Akpabio said.
Evangelist Uma Ukpai, a globally recognised Christian leader, was known for his powerful evangelistic crusades, healing ministries, and soul-winning efforts across Nigeria and the world. Though he travelled extensively, he chose to base his ministry in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where he lived and worked for several decades.
Akpabio recalled the evangelist’s unwavering faith and the way he dedicated his life fully to God’s service, noting that his influence went beyond preaching.
“He was not just an Evangelist who won many souls for God, but a beacon of light who illuminated countless lives,” the Senate President said.
“It is remarkable that Evangelist Uma Ukpai stayed true to his calling with an unwavering commitment to preaching the word of God globally. His legacy remains one of impact, inspiration and hope for those whom he encountered.”
According to Akpabio, Evangelist Ukpai also made lasting contributions to society by establishing schools and healthcare facilities, ensuring that his ministry addressed not only spiritual but also physical and social needs.
“While he committed his life to God and His work, he also catered for humanity through the establishment of schools and medical facilities to provide for the educational and healthcare needs of his communities,” Akpabio noted.
Evangelist Uma Ukpai, often referred to as one of Nigeria’s most influential Christian leaders, was admired for his simplicity, spiritual discipline, and strong voice in the Pentecostal movement. His crusades drew large crowds, and testimonies of healing and transformation followed his messages.
Akpabio acknowledged that his death is a huge loss to the Christian community, not only in Nigeria but across the globe. However, he expressed comfort in the knowledge that Ukpai’s life was well-lived, and his contributions to both the Kingdom of God and the betterment of humanity would continue to speak for generations.
“His passing has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. Though this is a great loss not just to the body of Christ, I find solace in the fact that Heaven has gained one more Angel to watch over the flock of God,” Akpabio said.
“Indeed he has joined the heavenly choir to sing praises in the presence of God.”
The Senate President described Ukpai as a man who fought a good fight, kept the faith, and finished his divine assignment with honour and integrity.
“His journey may have ended, but his legacies live on in the hearts of humanity. Indeed, he has fought a good fight, he has finished his course, and he has kept the faith. May his soul rest in the bosom of the Lord whom he served.”
Senator Akpabio also extended his condolences to the late evangelist’s widow, Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, their family, and the wider Christian community. He urged them to find comfort in the impactful life Evangelist Ukpai lived and the spiritual legacy he left behind.
“My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, his entire family, and the body of Christ,” he said.
“May you all find solace in the remarkable and impactful life that he lived and the knowledge that he may have left us physically, but his legacies live on.”
Evangelist Uma Ukpai’s passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s spiritual history, but his work continues to inspire faith, hope, and service.
