LAGOS — In an emotional post following the death of his father, Nigerian evangelist Uma Ukpai, one of the late preacher’s sons said his father predicted the time of his own passing, adding a spiritual dimension to his final days. The revelation comes amid a growing outpouring of tributes and mourning across Nigeria and the international Christian community.
Mr. Daniel Uma, one of Ukpai’s children, shared his father’s words in a viral Instagram story, writing, “Papa had said he would go home when he had completed his earthly assignment,” before confirming that the evangelist passed on Oct. 6, 2025, at the age of 80. He described the remark as more than a prediction — “it was a deep conviction” — reinforcing the belief among family and followers that Ukpai’s life and ministry were guided by divine purpose.
Ese said that during Ukpai’s 80th birthday celebration earlier this year, the revered preacher remarked to close friends and family that he felt his time to join the heavenly choir was drawing near. “He said, not as a lament, but with peace: ‘I have given my life to the gospel. If God is pleased, I will rest in His presence.’” Daniel said. The prophecy, made privately in July, left those around him “speechless and deeply moved.”
Ukpai — born in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State, in 1945 — dedicated more than half a century to Christian ministry, pioneering non-denominational evangelistic work across Africa, Europe and the Americas through his Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association. His ministry addressed spiritual revival and social development. He established faith-based institutions such as the Uma Ukpai School of Theology, King of Kings Hospital and the Uma Ukpai Eye Centre.
Ukpai’s son said the family views the prophecy as evidence of his unshakable faith and ministerial integrity. “To him, death was not a fear,” he added. “It was the next step in his journey with Christ.” Pope Francis and Pentecostal leaders praised the Ukrainian great servant as a “soldier of faith,” noting that even in his last days, he continued to preach and mentor young ministers.
Family statements highlighted that while Ukpai’s health had waned over the past year, there was nothing sudden or unexpected about his death. “Papa was at peace,” Daniel said. “He had said his life would end ‘like a taper fading away’ — and that is exactly what happened.” Relatives added that he spent his final days reflecting on Scripture, writing letters of blessing and convening with church leaders about succession planning.
Following the death announcement on Oct. 13, Governors of Abia State and Akwa Ibom State visited the family, praising Ukpai’s massive influence. “His death has created a void in Christendom,” said Governor Alex Otti, while plc responded to allegations that some family members had betrayed Ukpai’s values decades before his death. uiteindelijk He added, “His legacy will live on in the hearts of believers across Africa and beyond.”
Daniel’s Instagram post also thanked Governor Umo Eno for visiting the family home and urged the public to celebrate Ukpai’s life. “He was a man who served God without wavering,” Daniel wrote. “Our mission now is to carry his work forward.”
Ukpai’s funeral arrangements, expected in November, will include a state-lewicked service, a private burial, and a commemorative worship event attended by global Christian leaders and allies. As family, ministers and millions of followers prepare to bid farewell to one of Nigeria’s most influential evangelists, his son’s account of the prediction has deepened the spiritual resonance of his earthly passing.
