10 things to know about Late Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, Nigeria’s legendary evangelist

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, one of Nigeria’s most respected evangelists and pioneers of the Pentecostal movement, has passed away at the age of 80.

As the founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA) based in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, he dedicated over six decades of his life to spreading the gospel, organizing impactful crusades, and inspiring hope across the world.

Here are 10 key things to know about him:

1. Background

Rev. Uma Ukpai was born on January 7, 1945, in Asaga village, Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria.

He hailed from the Igbo ethnic group and grew up in a modest Christian family, where early experiences of hardship shaped his compassion for the poor and less privileged.

2. Academic journey

A lover of knowledge, Rev. Ukpai studied both in Nigeria and abroad.

He attended schools such as All Saints Secondary School, Niger Delta Technical School (now Boys Technical College, Aba), and later trained in the UK and US.

He earned qualifications in Electrical Engineering, Journalism, and Divinity, including a Doctorate in Divinity.

3. Orphaned at a young age

Tragedy struck when he lost his father at the age of 10.

This experience taught him resilience and empathy values that later defined his ministry and humanitarian work.

4. Conversion to Christianity

In 1958, at just 13 years old, he gave his life to Christ, a decision that set him on the path to becoming one of the most influential evangelists in Africa.

5. Founder of Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA)

He established the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), a non-denominational ministry headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Through this platform, he organized nationwide crusades, healing services, and outreach programs that touched millions of lives.

6. A Founding Leader of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN)

Rev. Ukpai was one of the key founders of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), a body uniting Pentecostal churches across the nation.

His landmark “Greater Lagos for Christ Crusade” in 1985 played a major role in the creation of the PFN.

7. Family

In 1975, he married Rev. (Mrs.) Philomena Uma Ukpai, who faithfully served alongside him in ministry.

Their marriage was blessed with eight biological children and one adopted child.

8. Trials and resilience

Despite his strong faith, he experienced deep personal loss, including the death of two of his children in a car accident.

He often shared that such trials strengthened his belief in God’s sovereignty.

9. Humanitarian work

Beyond evangelism, Rev. Ukpai was deeply involved in philanthropy.

He founded the Uma Ukpai Eye Centre, King of Kings Specialist Hospital, Uma Ukpai Polytechnic, and the Uma Ukpai Scholarship Foundation, providing education and healthcare to the needy.

10. Death

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai passed away at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of faith, unity, and service.

His life and message of hope continue to inspire Christians and ministers across Nigeria and the world.