President Tinubu: “A Builder of Men, Libra of Faith”
President Bola Tinubu was swift to issue a tribute, lamenting the loss of “one of God’s generals.” He affirmed that Ukpai was more than a preacher—“a builder of men and bridges linking faiths, people, tongues, and tribes.” The President recalled the landmark crusades, extolled Ukpai’s humanitarian works—schools, hospitals, charity—and prayed that God grant him eternal rest while comforting his family.
Governor Umo Eno: A Personal and Prophetic Connection
Although not a native of Akwa Ibom, Ukpai’s ministry had deep roots in the state. Governor Umo Eno led a condolence visit to the Ukpai family in Uyo, cutting short his own State Executive Council meeting. During the visit, the governor described Ukpai as “an icon and a rare gem.” He recalled a prophetic word from the evangelist: that Eno would one day govern the state—a prophecy Eno said he treasures. He also pledged that his government would collaborate with the family to give Ukpai a befitting burial.
Pastor Enoch Adeboye: Strength in Shared Sorrow
The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, publicly acknowledged how Ukpai’s steadfast faith gave him strength during one of his darkest hours. When Adeboye lost his son in 2021, he said, “One reference point that gave me strength was Uma Ukpai. I know he lost more than one child in a day, yet he did not waver.”
Barr. Asukwo Mendie Archibong: Cries of Joy for a sant’s Homegoing
“The passing of sants brings cries of joy, for their days in heaven have only just started. I met Rev. Uma Ukpai when he was just a young man but already a grown man in the ministry—in 1976, during a retreat in Palmol Estate, Calabar. Since then, he has held a place dear to my heart. As he begins his journey in heaven, I celebrate him and pray I meet him there when my time comes.”
Rev. Biodun Fatoyinbo : Mourns papa Uma Ukpai
“I just heard, a General in the Faith returned home -Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai
His influenced shaped my life, COZA Global and countless others in the faith community. I’m certain heaven is holding an extra stud in his crown on my behalf and more for his service to all.
Apostle Johnson Suleman: Voices from the Pulpit and Stage
He stood Gallant and taught us Mission.
Goodnight GENERAL SIR (psalm 116.15) REST IN POWER- DR.UMA UKPAI.
CAN (Christian Association of Nigeria)
- The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), led by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, issued a formal statement expressing “deep sorrow” over Ukpai’s passing.
- CAN described him as a “towering figure in the Nigerian Church” whose ministry “transformed countless lives and strengthened the body of Christ across generations.
- The statement highlighted his devotion to preaching, teaching, and charitable acts, emphasizing that his “message of faith, healing, and hope inspired generations.
- Archbishop Okoh extended condolences to Ukpai’s wife, family, and ministry, and prayed that God would comfort them, adding: “May the Almighty God comfort them, and may the legacy of his faith and service continue to inspire the Church and the nation.
- The tribute closed with a prayer: “May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
PFN (Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria)
- PFN, of which Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai was a foundational figure, offered its own tribute. It described him as a “sensational healing evangelist”.
- The National President of PFN, Dr. Francis Wale Oke, expressed deep grief and acknowledged Ukpai’s role in the body of Christ as a founding member.
- PFN leaders also noted that Ukpai was originally scheduled to speak at PFN’s upcoming 40‑year thanksgiving event, and that his absence would be deeply felt
The world mourns a man who not only spoke of heaven but made it believable. In the words of Apostle Paul: “He fought the good fight, he finished the race, he kept the faith.” And now, in the silence of the crowds and the stillness of crusade grounds, heaven has thundered: “Well done, faithful servant.”
Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai is gone—but his fire remains.
