President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of renowned evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, Dr. Uma Ukpai, describing him as “one of God’s generals” who devoted his life to spreading the gospel and uplifting humanity.
In a heartfelt tribute, President Tinubu said the late evangelist, who died at the age of 80, was an “anointed crusader of faith, filled with fire and ice for the gospel,” and a man who restored discipline, love, and neighbourliness among believers.
Born in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State, Dr. Ukpai endured several challenges in his early years but remained steadfast in his divine calling. He went on to become a leading voice in the Christian revival movements that swept across Nigeria and parts of Africa in the 1980s.
Recalling the evangelist’s impact, President Tinubu highlighted two of his major crusades — the Greater Ibadan for Christ crusade in 1982 and the Greater Lagos for Christ crusade in 1985 — describing them as phenomenal events that transformed lives and strengthened faith.
“Dr. Ukpai’s mission was to unite the Christian fold, promote peace and harmony among people of different faiths, and build bridges across tribes and tongues,” the President said. “He was also a humanitarian who established charities, schools, and hospitals to support the less privileged.”
President Tinubu commended the late evangelist’s legacy, saying, “He fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. He has fulfilled his divine mission and gone to be with the Lord.”
The President extended his condolences to Dr. Ukpai’s wife, Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, their children, and members of his ministry, praying that God grants them comfort and the late evangelist eternal rest.
