Renowned Nigerian evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, has passed away at the age of 80. His family confirmed his death in a statement titled “Glorious Transition,” announcing that he passed on to glory on October 6, 2025.

Chief Bourdex Ogba has penned a touching tribute to Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, describing him as a warrior who fought the good fight, a man whose words carried thunder and whose faith moved mountains.

Here’s the full tribute

“A Flame Returns to Light

In Loving Memory of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai (1945–2025)

The trumpet has sounded— not in sorrow, but in triumph. Heaven has received a warrior who fought the good fight,
a man whose words carried thunder and whose faith moved mountains.

For over six decades, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai stood as a burning lamp in a darkened age—
a voice that pierced doubt, a vessel through which Grace poured freely. He walked the path of service with unbending conviction,
teaching men not just how to pray, but how to believe.

Today, the dust mourns,
but the heavens rejoice.
The mortal tent has fallen,
yet the indwelling Spirit rises, radiant and free.

Those who live by Truth never die; they only awaken—
called into higher service, summoned to joyful activity in the realms where Light reigns unclouded.

Rest well, Great General of Faith.
Your race is run, your lamp still burns,
and your works follow you into eternity.

May your spirit awaken to joyful activities in the Great Beyond.”

Chief Dr. David Ogba Onuoha Bourdex MFR’OON —Ugo’Ena Nde Abiriba