Tinubu Hails Late Uma Ukpai as ‘God’s General’ in Heartfelt Tribute

• President Bola Tinubu has mourned the passing of renowned evangelist Rev. Uma Ukpai, describing him as “one of God’s generals” who dedicated his life to faith, unity, and service to humanity.

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of renowned evangelist Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, describing him as “one of God’s generals” who dedicated his life to spreading the gospel and fostering unity among Nigerians.

In a statement issued by the Presidency on Monday, Tinubu praised the late cleric for his decades of service to God and humanity through the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association and his leadership role in the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).

“With a heavy heart, I mourn the passing of one of God’s generals, Dr. Uma Ukpai,” Tinubu said. “He was an anointed crusader of the faith, filled with fire and zeal for the gospel — restoring humanity to discipline, love, and good neighbourliness.”

Rev. Uma Ukpai, who died at age 80, was a respected international evangelist known for his large-scale crusades and humanitarian work. Born in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State, he rose from humble beginnings to become one of Nigeria’s most influential Christian leaders.

Tinubu recalled the impact of Ukpai’s historic crusades, including the Greater Ibadan for Christ in 1982 and Greater Lagos for Christ in 1985, describing them as “phenomenal events that ignited spiritual revival across Nigeria and Africa.”

DON’T MISS: FG to Disburse ₦6.3 Billion Interest-Free Loans to 21,000 Nigerians Affected by Floods

“His mission was clearly to unite the Christian fold and spread peace and harmony,” the President said. “He was a builder — building men and bridges across faiths, people, and tribes.”

Apart from his evangelistic work, Rev. Ukpai founded schools, hospitals, and charities aimed at improving the lives of the underprivileged. Tinubu commended these humanitarian efforts as part of a legacy that will endure for generations.

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

The President extended condolences to Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, the late evangelist’s wife, and their family, encouraging them to find solace in his lasting spiritual and humanitarian legacy.

“I commiserate with his family, his ministry, and the entire Christian community. May God Almighty grant him eternal rest,” Tinubu concluded.