By Solomon OKPO
Uyo, Nigeria – The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of renowned international evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, Reverend Uma Ukpai, who died at the age of 80.
In a heartfelt tribute personally signed by Senator Akpabio, he described the late cleric as “God’s General” and a man whose unwavering faith and devotion to his calling left an indelible mark on the world.
“Today we mourn the passing of God’s General, Evangelist Uma Ukpai, whose transition has left the body of Christ and indeed humanity in a profound state of sadness,” Akpabio wrote. “He was not just an evangelist who won many souls for God, but a beacon of light who illuminated countless lives.”
For decades, despite his global evangelical outreach, Reverend Ukpai operated primarily from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, using the city as a base to impact lives both spiritually and socially. Akpabio praised his commitment to community development through the establishment of schools and healthcare facilities aimed at meeting the needs of the people.
“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,” Akpabio added.
Reflecting on Ukpai’s contributions to humanity, the Senate President noted that the evangelist’s passing is a loss not only to the Christian community but to the broader society.
“Though this is a great loss, I find solace in the fact that Heaven has gained one more angel to watch over the flock of God. Indeed, he has joined the heavenly choir to sing praises in the presence of God,” he said.
Offering condolences to the bereaved family and the Christian community, Akpabio urged them to find comfort in the remarkable life the evangelist lived.
“My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, his entire family, and the body of Christ. May you all find solace in the knowledge that though he may have left us physically, his legacies live on,” he concluded.
Reverend Uma Ukpai’s legacy includes decades of evangelism, humanitarian service, and leadership that touched thousands of lives both in Nigeria and abroad.
