Breaking news: Tears and Tributes as Renowned Cleric, Uma Ukpai dies at 80

Global christian community has been thrown into a mourning state, as renowned Evangelist Rev. Uma Ukpai bowed out at 80.

The global Christian community has been thrown into mourning following the passing of renowned Nigerian evangelist and spiritual leader, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, at the age of 80.

Famous Reporters gathered that Rev. Ukpai died in Lagos after a life dedicated to spreading the gospel and transforming lives for over five decades.

The announcement was made on his official Instagram page, @Uma_Ukpai, on Monday, confirming that the revered preacher died on October 6, 2025.

In the statement titled “With hearts full of gratitude, we celebrate the triumphant homegoing of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai,” the family expressed their deep appreciation to God for his life of impact and service to humanity.

The post read: “With hearts full of gratitude, we celebrate the triumphant homegoing of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who passed on to glory on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80. A faithful soldier of the cross has been called to rest.

“Dedicating over six decades of his life to fiery evangelism, dynamic teaching of the Word and prophetic demonstrations 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, 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”.

A revered figure in Pentecostal Christianity, Ukpai’s death marks the end of an era for millions who saw him not merely as a preacher but as a father figure and mentor in faith. His passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from church leaders, public figures, and ordinary believers who continue to reflect on the depth of his teachings and the enduring impact of his healing ministry.

Born in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State, Rev. Dr. Ukpai rose from humble beginnings to become one of Nigeria’s most respected evangelists. Through the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, founded in the 1970s, he led numerous crusades and revival meetings that drew massive crowds across Africa, Europe, and North America.

His messages of salvation, healing, and national unity resonated deeply across denominational lines, inspiring hope and renewal among diverse audiences. From Lagos to London, his programs were known to attract both the poor and powerful alike, with countless testimonies of miraculous healings and life-transforming encounters.

The faith icon who has undoubtedly left the legacy of healing and hope, was the founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA).