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 great generals who dedicated his life to spreading the gospel and uplifting humanity.
In a heartfelt tribute, the President said Dr Ukpai, who died at the age of 80, was not just another preacher but an anointed crusader filled with “fire and ice for the gospel,” whose ministry restored discipline, love, and good neighbourliness across communities.
He recalled the evangelist’s powerful revival campaigns, including the “Greater Ibadan for Christ” crusade in 1982 and the “Greater Lagos for Christ” crusade in 1985, describing them as transformative events that shaped Nigeria’s Christian revival in the 1980s.
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Born in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State, Dr Ukpai overcame numerous challenges in his early life before answering God’s call to ministry. His evangelistic mission, the President noted, was centred on unity, peace, and harmony among Christians and people of diverse faiths.
Tinubu also praised the late cleric’s humanitarian contributions, including the establishment of charities, schools, and hospitals that served the underprivileged.
“Dr Ukpai has fulfilled his divine mission and has gone to be with the Lord. He fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith,” the President said.
He prayed for the repose of Dr Ukpai’s soul and extended condolences to his wife, Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, their children, and members of his ministry, urging them to take comfort in the enduring legacy of the revered servant of God.
