Renowned Nigerian evangelist Rev. (Dr.) Uma Ukpai has died. The family confirmed that the preacher — founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA) and a prominent voice in Nigeria’s Pentecostal movement — passed away on 6 October 2025. The announcement was posted on his official Instagram account and later picked up by national outlets.

Ukpai, who was 80, built a reputation over more than five decades as an international evangelist, revivalist and humanitarian. He led large crusades across Nigeria and abroad, and his ministry combined preaching with charitable work in education and healthcare. Over the years he was widely described as one of the leading pioneers of modern Pentecostalism in Nigeria.

The family’s statement gave the date of his death and asked that the public respect the family’s privacy as arrangements were made. Major Nigerian news organisations and religious leaders fast-tracked tributes and shared memories of Ukpai’s ministry and personal influence.

Musicians, pastors and public figures reacted online, offering personal stories of how Ukpai’s ministry touched their lives. Gospel artist Frank Edwards, among others, shared testimony about healing and spiritual influence tied to Ukpai’s crusades.

Born in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State, Uma Ukpai rose from humble beginnings, converted to Christianity in his youth, and later founded the UUEA. He also played a role in broader Pentecostal leadership in Nigeria, including involvement with platforms that brought Nigeria’s Pentecostal leaders together. His career spanned preaching, teaching, and humanitarian initiatives that established him as a household name in Nigerian Christian circles.

Details about funeral services and a program of final rites were not yet available at the time of reporting; the family said arrangements would be announced. Journalists and religious communities are expected to publish confirmed times for memorials and burial once the family releases them.