Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
UYO, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria — In a solemn and deeply respectful ceremony, Governor Umo Bassey Eno received the remains of the late Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai at Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo, paying tribute to the renowned evangelist’s lifetime dedication to spreading the Christian gospel and serving communities across Nigeria and beyond. The event drew religious leaders, government officials, family members, and members of the public, reflecting the enduring influence of Rev. Ukpai’s ministry and the high regard in which he was held by many.
Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who passed away at the age of 80 on October 6, 2025, was a towering figure in Nigerian Christian evangelism. Born on January 7, 1945, in Asaga, Ohafia in Abia State, he was the founder and president of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), a non-denominational ministry headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Over decades, he was instrumental in shaping Pentecostal movements in Nigeria and was a founder and key leader of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN). His ministry crossed denominational lines and touched lives across Africa and the global Christian community.
As the specially upgraded Victor Attah International Airport prepared to welcome the late evangelist’s body, Governor Eno, accompanied by senior members of his administration and religious leaders, stood in reverent acknowledgment of Rev. Ukpai’s impact. In his remarks, the governor described the evangelist as a faithful servant of God whose work and witness had left a lasting spiritual legacy. “We have come together not just to receive the remains of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, but to honour a life that was committed to the service of God and humanity,” Eno said during the ceremony.
State officials and attendees observed a moment of silence before the governor formally received and handed over the evangelist’s body to family members and church representatives, symbolising the beginning of final funeral rites. Among the guests were leaders of the Christian community and representatives of the PFN, whose history is closely intertwined with Rev. Ukpai’s ministry.
Rev. Ukpai’s Christian journey spanned over six decades. From humble beginnings, he rose to prominence through evangelistic crusades, interdenominational outreach, and humanitarian initiatives that aimed to uplift underserved communities. His ministry placed a strong emphasis on spiritual empowerment, education and practical expressions of faith, including health outreach programmes, scholarships and community support initiatives. His commitment to an inclusive and compassionate expression of Christianity earned him wide respect across denominational lines.
Governor Eno’s tribute at the airport extended beyond formal gestures, reflecting the significance of Rev. Ukpai’s influence in Akwa Ibom State and the broader Christian landscape. Eno highlighted the evangelist’s steadfast devotion in times of personal challenge, noting that his resilience and faith were a source of inspiration to many. “Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai’s life exemplified unwavering commitment to the gospel. His work brought hope, healing and encouragement to countless believers,” the governor said.
Family members, including Dr. Ukpai’s wife, Philomena, and their children, were present as the body was received. They expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and compassion from state officials, church leaders and well-wishers. Their presence underscored the unity of purpose shared by those who knew and worked with the evangelist throughout his life.
The atmosphere at the airport was reflective and respectful, with attendees sharing personal memories of Rev. Ukpai’s ministry. Leaders of various Christian denominations also pledged to uphold his legacy of faith and community service. Many described him as a mentor, spiritual father, and an architect of inter-Christian cooperation in Nigeria.
In addition to his role in PFN, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai was known for establishing educational and social institutions designed to empower individuals beyond spiritual life. These efforts included theological training programs, welfare schemes, and initiatives aimed at addressing socio-economic challenges in local communities. His multi-faceted contributions positioned him as both a religious leader and a community change-maker.
The reception of Rev. Ukpai’s remains comes at a time when Victor Attah International Airport, recently elevated to full international status, serves as a symbolic gateway for major events in Akwa Ibom State. The airport has been pivotal in connecting the state with global destinations and facilitating significant arrivals and departures, reinforcing its role as a hub for official and high-profile occurrences.
Following the airport reception, arrangements for Rev. Ukpai’s memorial service and final funeral rites are expected to involve both state and church leadership. These services are anticipated to draw thousands of mourners and dignitaries, given the evangelist’s stature and influence. Planned tributes are likely to reflect not only his spiritual legacy but also his contributions to education, humanitarian causes and inter-faith dialogue.
Reactions from religious communities across Nigeria have highlighted the deep void left by Rev. Ukpai’s passing. Many Christian bodies, including ministers, laity and church councils, have issued statements recognising his dedication to gospel ministry and his role in shaping modern Pentecostalism in Nigeria. Their messages have emphasised celebration of his life’s work and encouragement for continued spiritual growth among followers.
As the state of Akwa Ibom and the wider Christian community prepare to honour Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai’s legacy in full, Governor Umo Eno’s reception of his remains at Uyo airport stands as a testament to the significant mark the evangelist left on the lives of many. His life story — extending from early ministry beginnings to global evangelical influence — remains a defining chapter in the narrative of Christian leadership in Nigeria.
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