Tinubu Mourns Evangelist Uma Ukpai, Describes Him as ‘One of God’s Generals’

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of renowned evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, Dr. Uma Ukpai, describing him as “one of God’s generals.”

Dr. Ukpai’s family confirmed his passing on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80, describing it as a “glorious transition” after a life of devoted service to God and humanity.

“With a heavy heart, I mourn the passing of one of God’s generals, Dr Uma Ukpai,” the President said in a condolence message on Monday.

A Life of Evangelism and Revival

President Tinubu hailed the late cleric as “an anointed crusader of the faith, filled with fire and ice for the gospel and restoring humanity to discipline, love, and good neighbourliness.”

He recalled Dr Ukpai’s notable contributions to Christian evangelism and revival movements across Africa, particularly during the 1980s.

“He was one of the leaders in the Lord’s army who brought the fervour of revival sweeping across Nigeria and parts of Africa,” Tinubu said.

The President highlighted some of Ukpai’s major crusades, including the ‘Greater Ibadan for Christ Crusade’ in 1982 and the ‘Greater Lagos for Christ Crusade’ in 1985, describing them as “phenomenal events in both proportion and impact.”

Champion of Unity and Service

Tinubu lauded the evangelist’s humanitarian efforts, noting that Ukpai was not only a preacher but “a builder of men and bridges linking different faiths, people, tongues, and tribes.”

He commended his commitment to social impact through charities, schools, and hospitals established to uplift the underprivileged.

“Dr Ukpai’s mission was clearly to unite the Christian fold and different faiths and spread peace and harmony,” the President added.

Praying for the repose of his soul, Tinubu said:

“Dr Ukpai has fulfilled his divine mission and has gone to be with the Lord. He fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.”

He also extended his condolences to Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, the cleric’s wife, their children, and members of his ministry.

Enduring Legacy

Over his six-decade ministry, Dr Ukpai became widely recognised for his fiery evangelistic campaigns, transformative teachings, and mentorship of Christian leaders across generations.

Beyond his ministry, he was remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, and mentor to many who regarded him as a guide in faith and life.

In their statement, the family said:

“While we mourn his physical absence, we rejoice that he finished his race and is now resting in eternal praise. He was a faithful soldier of the cross who devoted his life to spreading the gospel with passion and integrity.”

They added that his “teachings, prophetic insights, and mentorship have left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire believers for years to come.”

Ukpai’s ministry continues to influence communities globally through his network of churches, educational programmes, and humanitarian initiatives.