Bishop Mike Okonkwo breaks silence on death of Rev. Uma Ukpai

The Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Dr. Mike Okonkwo, has finally spoken following the passing of renowned evangelist, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, describing him as “a spiritual giant” whose life left an indelible mark on generations.

Posting on his official Facebook page late Friday, Okonkwo wrote with deep emotion:

“In local parlance, an Iroko has fallen. It feels just like the other day we were together celebrating God’s faithfulness at your 80th birthday. Since receiving the news of your passing into glory, it has been difficult to come to terms with. Yet we are comforted by the truth that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.”

He continued:

“Your impact on the lives of multitudes can never be overstated. Countless lives and testimonies bear witness to the fruitfulness of your ministry. You served the Lord wholeheartedly till your last breath, and I believe you’ve now heard those precious words: ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.’”

Okonkwo, one of Nigeria’s most respected Pentecostal leaders, said the late evangelist’s passing marked the transition of “a spiritual general” whose ministry transformed lives across nations.

His message comes days after the Uma Ukpai family officially confirmed the evangelist’s passing at the age of 80, describing him as “a faithful soldier of the Cross” who devoted over six decades to preaching, teaching, and humanitarian service.

They said funeral arrangements would be announced later and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love from Nigerians and the global Christian community.

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, was widely regarded as one of the most enduring voices of the Pentecostal revival in Africa.