Renowned Evangelist Uma Ukpai ‘Sleeps’ at 80
Renowned Nigerian evangelist and spiritual leader of Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, is dead.
This was confirmed in a statement on Monday by his family, who said he passed away on October 6 2025 at the age of 80.
The family described his passing as a “glorious transition” from a life of devoted service to eternal rest.
Ukpai, widely recognised as a spiritual general and founding father of faith, dedicated over six decades of his life to evangelism, dynamic teaching of the Word, and prophetic demonstrations of God’s power.
The statement read: “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,” the family said.
“While we mourn his physical absence, we rejoice that he has finished his race and is now resting in eternal praise.”
Dr. Uma is the founder and president of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. He turned 80 on 7 January.
Though from Ohafia in Abia State, the late cleric had spent most of his adult life in Uyo, where he hosted hundreds of Christians to a life-impacting service every Wednesday at his Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association’s cathedral.
In January, his followers gifted Uma N80 million for his 80th birthday. Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State described him as “God’s gift to Akwa Ibom State” during the birthday celebration in Uyo.
