Abia State Holds State Burial for Renowned Evangelist Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai

OhibabaMar 27, 2026Read original

The Abia State Government on Thursday, March 26, 2026, organised a grand state burial service in honour of the late Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, one of Nigeria’s most influential Christian evangelists and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association.

The solemn ceremony took place at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, beginning at 10:00 a.m. It drew top government officials, religious leaders, and mourners from across Nigeria and beyond to celebrate the life and legacy of the cleric, who died on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80.

The remains of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, a native of Asaga in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, were earlier received with full honours at the Akwa Ibom-Abia state boundary before being conveyed to Umuahia for the state funeral service.

The body had previously lain in state in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where he resided for many years.

Governor Alex Otti’s administration described the late evangelist as a “towering figure” whose life of faith, leadership, and humanitarian impact left an indelible mark on Abia State, Nigeria, and the global Christian community.

The state burial was part of a week-long programme of funeral rites that culminated in the final interment on Friday, March 27, 2026, at his hometown of Asaga, Ohafia.

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, born on January 7, 1945, was celebrated as an international preacher who ministered for nearly six decades. He was widely respected for his powerful crusades, teachings on faith and prosperity, and establishment of numerous charitable initiatives, including educational and medical outreach programmes.

Dignitaries in attendance included senior government functionaries, clergy from various denominations, and notable figures who paid glowing tributes to his spiritual legacy and contributions to nation-building through the gospel.

The state burial reflects Abia’s recognition of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai’s immense role in promoting moral values and spiritual development. Family members, while expressing gratitude for the honour bestowed on their patriarch, described his passing as a “glorious home-going.

”As the final interment proceeds today in Asaga, Ohafia, many have described the occasion as not just a farewell but a celebration of a life well-lived in service to God and humanity.

The Abia State Government has urged residents and visitors to observe the period with dignity and solemnity.