Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai has passed away. He was widely recognized as a dedicated evangelist and a respected leader in the Word of God. He was born in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State. Many remember a particular crusade in his hometown where, despite a heavy downpour, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai stood firm, preaching with unmatched passion and conviction. His steadfast dedication inspired dozens who had gathered under umbrellas to continue listening in the rain, a testament to his magnetic influence and unwavering faith. This memory remains etched in the hearts of those who experienced his profound impact first-hand.
Born in 1945, he was a determined and ambitious preacher, committed to spreading the gospel globally. Recognizing the need for organizational support, he founded the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA). He was also a founding member and pioneer chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).
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Academic Pursuit
Uma Ukpai was not just an Evangelist; he was a scholar of international repute. Starting from his career development programs, which he engaged in at tertiary institutions in Kentucky and Miami in the United States, and another in Frisham in the United Kingdom.
His academic interest did not stop in his personal pursuit of development; he also, did set up the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA)- a seminary or theological school where potential pastors were being trained to become ordained men and women of God.
Humanitarian Programs
Uma Ukpai was a humanitarian both at heart and in deeds. His King of Kings Hospital was the arrowhead he used for his Eye care programs. Also, there are many other programs he engaged in to cater to the welfare of the less privileged. It is said that he helped many young people with funds to establish their own businesses.
He also gave scholarships to a lot of young people to further their education, most especially in his theological school and polytechnic.
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Healing and Miracles
Though he was an Evangelist, he performed miracles (however, most of his miracles are not well documented because he refused to keep records of them). However, the few that made it to the public space were the healing of a child who was born crippled, ordering a chaotic madman to leave the area where he was having his crusade.
Losses
Just like every other human being on the earth, Uma Ukpai had his share of real-life challenges. For instance, his two children died in a road accident.
He faced numerous challenges to his ministry, both physical and spiritual, and he was able to overcome those obstacles that came his way.
He lived a fulfilled life as a man, and had an engaging life as a man of God. He lived up to 80 years amid health challenges.
