Uma Ukapi

Renowned Nigerian evangelist Dr. Uma Ukpai, widely regarded as the father of Pentecostalism in Nigeria, has died at the age of 80.

The family of the late cleric announced his passing in a statement issued on Monday, October 13, saying he died on October 6, 2025.

“A faithful soldier has been called to rest,” the family said, describing Dr. Ukpai as a spiritual general whose ministry touched millions of lives across Nigeria and beyond.

The statement continued:

“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 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 details of his funeral will be announced later.

A Lifetime of Evangelism and Influence

Dr. Ukpai was the founder and president of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Although originally from Ohafia in Abia State, he spent most of his life in Uyo, where he hosted thousands of worshippers every Wednesday during his popular “Faith Clinic” services.

He marked his 80th birthday on January 7, 2025, a celebration attended by church leaders, government officials, and admirers from across Nigeria. During the event, his followers presented him with ₦80 million in appreciation of his decades of service to God and humanity.

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom described Dr. Ukpai as “God’s gift to Akwa Ibom State.”

Tributes from Christian Leaders

Among those who paid tribute during his 80th birthday celebration was Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

Pastor Adeboye, who delivered the sermon at the event, recounted how Dr. Ukpai comforted him during one of the darkest moments of his life — the death of his son.

“He is extremely special to me and to the Christian community within and outside Nigeria,” Adeboye said.
“If you see me kneeling down to worship God before I stand up here, it’s because I know that if I follow the footsteps of a great man like that… when I grow a little older, I’ll want to be like Uma Ukpai.”

Adeboye added that he first met Dr. Ukpai over 40 years ago during a crusade in Lagos, and had since admired his passion and consistency in preaching the gospel.

Legacy

Dr. Uma Ukpai was one of Nigeria’s earliest and most influential Pentecostal figures, known for his nationwide crusades and interdenominational Christian outreaches since the 1970s. His ministry inspired a generation of Nigerian pastors and evangelists who continue to reference his teachings and mentorship.