Umo Eno has described the late Uma Ukpai as a gift to both Akwa Ibom State and humanity.
The governor made this remark on Friday during the Night of Songs and Tributes organised by the state government in honour of the late cleric at the International Christian Worship Centre.
Ukpai passed away on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80.
In a statement released by the Government House press unit, Eno portrayed the deceased as a moral figure who leveraged his global connections to support causes that uplifted the poor and less privileged.
He praised Ukpai’s influence as a mentor and spiritual leader, noting that his impact helped shape the spiritual identity of the state. He also commended him for establishing the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, headquartered in Uyo, through which he spread the gospel worldwide and nurtured many evangelists.
“For over six decades, he defined the spiritual soul of our dear state. Even though he was from our neighbouring Abia State, the world knew him through his Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, headquartered here in Uyo.
“Uyo was his home, Uyo was his base and Uyo had all of the blessings, and he was a gift to us so we celebrate him tonight.
“He consistently prayed for the peace and progress of this state and offered wise counsel that strengthened our shared pursuit of sustainable growth and spiritual renewal,” he said.
Eno also recognised the late former National President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria as a strong supporter of his administration’s ARISE Agenda.
He extended condolences to Ukpai’s wife, Dr Philomena, and the family, assuring them of the state’s support in continuing the cleric’s vision.
“For us here in Akwa Ibom State, there will never be good byes for our dear father and Christian General, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai,” he said.
Delivering a sermon titled “Across the Bridge,” Emmanuel Kure of the Throne Room Ministry described Ukpai as a devoted intercessor, a hero of faith, and a powerful spiritual figure whose presence carried authority.
He added that the cleric’s passing should inspire emerging preachers to rise and fill the void left behind.
Earlier, the National President of PFN, Francis Wale Oke, acknowledged Ukpai as one of the founding fathers of the organisation, established to unite Pentecostal churches across Nigeria.
Also speaking on behalf of stakeholders in Akwa Ibom, former Nigerian Ambassador to Russia, Asam Asam, described the late cleric as a man of integrity, courage, and conviction who was deeply committed to mentoring leaders and advancing human capital development.
He highlighted Ukpai’s long-standing role in leadership development, from his early involvement with the Scripture Union to the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, noting that his efforts contributed to raising quality leaders in the state.
