The Abia State Government on Thursday held a state burial service for the renowned international evangelist, Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai, following his passing at the age of 80.
The solemn event, held at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia, drew a high-profile gathering of political and religious leaders from across the Federation. Governor Alex Otti, the chief host, described the late cleric as a “spiritual giant” whose impact transcended denominational and regional boundaries.
In his tribute, Governor Otti challenged the audience to live lives of integrity and service, noting that Reverend Ukpai’s legacy would remain indelible in the history of the Nigerian Christian faith. He urged the people of Abia and Akwa Ibom states—where the evangelist had a significant ministerial presence—to celebrate his transition as a passage to glory rather than a moment for despair.
“Papa Uma Ukpai did not die; he only transited,” Governor Otti stated. “He has left behind legacies that will continue to speak for him. We should emulate his life of selfless service to God and humanity.”
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, who was represented by his deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, described the late evangelist as a visioner whose ministry raised a global generation of faith leaders. He noted that the deceased was a pillar of the Pentecostal movement in Nigeria, particularly through the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association.
Delivering the sermon, the President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Francis Wale Oke, emphasized that Reverend Ukpai was a man of immense discipline who prioritized the gospel over material gain. Bishop Oke, a co-founder of the PFN alongside the deceased, noted that the late evangelist’s crusades were pivotal in shaping the spiritual landscape of the nation for over five decades.
The burial service was attended by several prominent dignitaries, including the Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, and the 2023 Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi. Also present were Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South), and the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, among other traditional and religious stakeholders.
Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai, born in 1945 in Asaga, Ohafia, died on October 6, 2025. He was widely respected for his philanthropic work, including the establishment of the Uma Ukpai Eye Centre and various academic institutions. His final interment is scheduled to take place at his country home in Ohafia, following the conclusion of the state ceremonies in the capital.
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