Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of one of Nigeria’s most revered Christian leaders, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai.

Rev. Ukpai, founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80.

In a condolence message to the bereaved family, Governor Soludo described the death of the legendary preacher as a monumental loss to Nigeria and the global body of Christ.

He eulogised Rev. Ukpai as “a true father of faith, a spiritual giant, and a fearless gospel crusader whose life was a testimony to the power of faith, devotion, and uncompromising service to God and humanity.”

The Governor noted that Rev. Ukpai was more than a preacher — he was a towering institution in Christian evangelism, moral uprightness, and the Pentecostal movement in Nigeria.

“For decades, his powerful voice echoed across continents, bringing salvation, healing, and hope to millions of people,” he said.

“The story of modern Christianity in Nigeria and across Africa cannot be complete without the indelible impact of Rev. Ukpai, through his crusades, theological teachings, and the establishment of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association dedicated to winning souls for Christ.”

In the statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, Governor Soludo extended the condolences of the Anambra State Government to the immediate family of the late evangelist, the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, and the entire Christian community in Nigeria.

He prayed that God would grant Rev. Ukpai’s soul eternal rest and give his family the strength to bear the irreparable loss.