Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma has described the passing of renowned evangelist Dr. Uma Ukpai as a major loss not only to Nigeria but to the global Christian community.
The governor said the late preacher lived a life fully devoted to spreading the gospel and building unity across the country.
In a condolence message, Uzodimma noted that Dr. Ukpai’s death had created a huge vacuum in the church and society. He praised the evangelist’s passion for preaching, saying he took the gospel beyond denominational and regional boundaries. “I admired him for his brand of evangelism which had no limits. I admired him for his faith and for his resilience,” the governor said.
The governor recalled that Dr. Ukpai was not only known for his massive crusades but also for his humanitarian contributions through the establishment of schools, hospitals, and charity foundations that transformed lives across Nigeria. He described the preacher as a man who combined deep spirituality with intellectual excellence.
According to Uzodimma, the late evangelist was a symbol of national unity who used his platform to promote peace and patriotism among Nigerians. “Dr. Uma Ukpai was a preacher of unity. His messages carried the spirit of love and togetherness. He believed in one Nigeria,” he added.
He explained that although Dr. Ukpai was originally from Abia State, he chose Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, as his base of ministry, which reflected his belief in a united and peaceful nation. The governor commended Ukpai’s choice to build a non denominational ministry, showing that Christians can work together regardless of their church affiliations.
Governor Uzodimma expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, the Christian community, and all Nigerians. He prayed that God would grant the late evangelist eternal rest and give his family the strength to bear the loss.
