Aniefiok Christopher
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has described the late Rev. (Dr.) Uma Ukpai as an embodiment of morality and a global spiritual figure whose influence transcended borders.
Speaking at the International Christian Worship Centre, Uyo on Friday, as part of the home-going ceremonies organised by the state government for the departed international televangelist, the Governor noted that Ukpai leveraged his access to world leaders to champion causes that uplifted the poor and vulnerable.
Seeing him a priceless gift to the state and humanity, he paid glowing tributes to the renowned clergyman at a solemn Night of Songs and Tributes.
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“For over six decades, he defined the spiritual soul of our dear state,” the governor said, adding that although Ukpai hailed from neighbouring Abia State, he made Uyo his base and impacted the world through Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association.
He hailed him as a mentor and spiritual leader who raised generations of evangelists globally, describing his contributions as central to the moral and spiritual fabrics of Akwa Ibom.
The Governor further noted that Ukpai was a staunch supporter of his administration’s ARISE Agenda, which, he said, has in the last two and a half years, prioritised the development of medical and aviation tourism, in extending government presence to the 368 wards across the state.
He added that youth-friendly centres were being established to foster self-development, while women had been organised into cooperatives to access funding for small businesses, initiatives he said aligned with the late cleric’s vision for societal upliftment.
The governor assured the family, particularly his widow, Dr. Philomena Ukpai, of the state’s continued support in sustaining the legacy of the revered preacher.
“For us in Akwa Ibom, there will never be goodbyes for our dear father and Christian General,” he stated.
Delivering a sermon titled Across the Bridge, Emmanuel Kure of the Throne Room Ministry, Katsina in Kaduna State described Ukpai as a spiritual intercessor and hero of faith whose passing should inspire a new generation of preachers to rise and continue his mission.
In his tribute, the National President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Francis Wale Oke, acknowledged the late evangelist as one of the founding fathers of the body, praising his life of miracles, leadership and unwavering commitment to Christian unity.
Also speaking, the former Nigerian Ambassador to Russia, Asam Asam, described Ukpai as a man of truth, courage and conviction who invested heavily in mentoring leaders and advancing human capital development in the state.
He noted that from his early involvement with the Scripture Union to the establishment of his evangelistic association, Ukpai’s influence helped produce quality leaders across generations.
The night of tributes, marked by solemn reflections and worship, underscored the enduring impact of the clergyman widely regarded as an irreplaceable spiritual asset to Akwa Ibom State and beyond.
