Abuja – The Nigerian House of Representatives on Tuesday paid a solemn tribute to the memory of the renowned evangelist and philanthropist, Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai, Founder and President of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association Incorporated, who passed away on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80.

The tribute was rendered at the commencement of Tuesday’s plenary, acknowledging the late preacher’s profound lifelong contributions to national spiritual growth, moral development, and humanitarian service.
The proceedings followed a formal notification of Dr. Ukpai’s demise to the House by Rep. Ibe Okwara Osonwa, Member representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency of Abia State.

The notification was formally read to the plenary by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, GCON, who presided over the sitting.
Earlier on Monday, the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, PhD, CFR, had, in a separate tribute on behalf of the House, described the late Dr. Ukpai as “a father of faith, moral compass, voice of hope, and a bridge-builder who dedicated his life to preaching peace, unity, and righteousness.”
In his message of condolence read during the plenary, Rep. Osonwa described the late Reverend Dr. Ukpai as “a revered uncle, constituent, and one of Nigeria’s foremost Christian leaders.”

He noted that the evangelist, through his ministry headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, spent over five decades proclaiming the gospel across Nigeria and the world “with power, grace, and humility.”

Rep. Osonwa further highlighted Dr. Ukpai’s impact, stating, “Born in Ohafia, Abia State, Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai devoted his life to evangelism, leadership development, and humanitarian service. Through his ministry, thousands were healed, delivered, and inspired to walk in faith and integrity. He was also a firm believer in national unity, moral reformation, and spiritual renewal.”
He described the passing of the clergyman as “a monumental loss to the Christian community, the people of Abia State, and Nigeria at large,” adding that “his life and message consistently reflected love, humility, and unwavering faith in God.”

In recognition of his enduring contributions to the nation’s moral and spiritual fabric, the House commiserated with the family of Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai, the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, the entire Christian community in Nigeria, as well as the Governments and People of Abia and Akwa Ibom States.

Honorable Members thereafter observed a moment of silence in honour of the late servant of God, praying that his legacy continues to inspire generations yet unborn.