Uma Ukpai was God’s General who fought the Good Fight – Tinubu

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid a glowing tribute to the late Evangelist Dr Uma Ukpai, describing him as “one of God’s generals” whose ministry rekindled faith, discipline, and love across Nigeria and beyond.

In a statement issued from the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday, Tinubu said the late evangelist, who died at the age of 80, lived an extraordinary life of service to God and humanity.

“Reverend Ukpai was not just another preacher; he was an anointed crusader of the faith, filled with fire and ice for the gospel and restoring humanity to discipline, love, and good neighbourliness,” the President stated.

Tinubu extolled the founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association for his pioneering role in the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and his tireless efforts to promote unity among Christians and people of different faiths.

“He was a builder, building men and bridges linking different faiths, people, tongues, and tribes,” Tinubu noted, recalling Ukpai’s legendary crusades, including the Greater Ibadan for Christ Crusade in 1982 and the Greater Lagos for Christ Crusade in 1985, which he said transformed countless lives.

The President also lauded Ukpai’s humanitarian legacy, highlighting his establishment of charities, schools, and hospitals for the less privileged.

“Dr Ukpai’s mission was clearly to unite the Christian fold and spread peace and harmony. He has 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.

He prayed for the repose of Ukpai’s soul and extended condolences to his wife, Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, their children, and members of his ministry.

“I encourage them to find solace in the great legacy of this beloved servant of God,” the President added.