Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has applauded the late gospel preacher, Uma Ukpai, for his positive impact on the Christian community in Nigeria and beyond.

Fubara noted that the cleric shone brightly and projected the gospel on the global stage, urging others to emulate his exemplary life. The governor, who spoke during a Service of Songs in honour of the deceased at the Royal House of Grace International Church in Port Harcourt, said the late Ukpai lived a life dedicated to serving God.

Represented by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Port Harcourt, Mr Sunny Ewule, the governor said the Rivers State Government deeply appreciated the immense contributions and sacrifices of the late preacher.

“We are here to celebrate the life of God’s general who sacrificed for humanity. He was prominent in religious affairs, and his crusades were widely known. He touched lives everywhere,” he said.

In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr Onwuka Nzeshi, the state government also commiserated with the deceased’s family and the entire Christian community.

“The Rivers State Government celebrates with his family and the Christian community on the impactful life he lived,” the statement added.

In his homily, Pastor Cletus Desmond of Redemption Ministries extolled the virtues of the late Ukpai, stating that he served his generation meritoriously and urged Christians to emulate his legacy.