By Ishola Balogun
As family, friends, followers, and well-wishers prepare to celebrate the 80th birthday of Rev. Umah Ukpai on January 7, 2025, it is fitting to reflect on the extraordinary life and ministry of this remarkable man. Born in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State, Nigeria, Rev. Ukpai has emerged as a spiritual leader of exceptional wisdom and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on the world.
His Early life and calling were marked by challenges that instilled in him a deep understanding of human suffering. These experiences, far from hindering him, became the bedrock of his compassionate ministry, fostering a profound empathy that informs his work to this day. His determined pursuit of education, culminating in his graduation from a renowned School of Theology in New York, equipped him with both spiritual insight and academic rigour, preparing him for the divine call that would shape his destiny.
Ministry and impact
Rev. Ukpai’s life-altering encounter with Christ ignited a fervent passion for evangelism, which blossomed into a global mission. He founded the Umah Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), a ministry dedicated to winning souls for Christ and empowering believers to live victorious lives. His mass crusades, revival meetings, and teaching seminars have reached millions, marked by miraculous healings, deliverance, and the restoration of hope.
Holistic approach to ministry
Rev. Ukpai’s vision extends far beyond the spiritual realm. He recognizes the interconnectedness of spiritual and physical well-being, advocating for a holistic approach to ministry that addresses the multifaceted needs of individuals and communities. This philosophy is reflected in his numerous initiatives, including:
Education: The Uma Ukpai School of Theology, Joseph Business College, and Ukpai Polytechnic, which provide quality education and scholarships to countless students.
Healthcare
King of Kings Specialist Hospital: A haven for healthcare was established in 1999, the King of Kings Specialist Hospital has been providing 24-hour services in various areas, including internal medicine, general surgery, ophthalmology, laboratory, radiology, and obstetrics and gynecology. The hospital’s serene environment and dedicated staff, including consultant ophthalmologists, optometrists, medical officers, pharmacists, laboratory scientists, and nurses, ensure that patients receive the best possible care.
Uma Ukpai Eye Center of Excellence The Uma Ukpai Eye Center, established in 2016, is a purpose-built facility designed to serve rural communities in six local government areas across three neighboring states. The center offers clinical, surgical, and optical services, with a focus on delivering quality, accessible, and affordable eye care. The center’s infrastructure is equipped to provide phacoemulsification cataract surgery services, also known as “laser cataract surgery,” making it one of the few centers in Nigeria located in a rural area to offer this service. As at the last count recently, it has carried out no fewer than 529 successful eye surgeries since inception. In 2024 alone, 39 was recorded as at early this month.
Poverty Alleviation: Programs that support widows, orphans, and vulnerable populations through scholarships, financial aid, and mentorship.
Dynamic preaching and authorship
Rev. Ukpai’s ministry is characterized by his dynamic preaching style, effectively conveying deep biblical knowledge with practical applications for everyday life. His annual events, such as the “Healing Week” and “Faith Clinic,” have become spiritual landmarks, fostering a culture of prayer and faith. His authored works, including “The Secret of Winning Life’s Battles” and “Faith to Change Your World,” continue to inspire and guide seekers worldwide.
Impact and Recognition
Rev. Ukpai’s impact transcends denominational boundaries, fostering unity and collaboration within the Christian community. He serves as a unifying figure, consistently advocating for love, reconciliation, and forgiveness while boldly addressing societal ills such as corruption and injustice. His legacy extends to the countless lives he has touched—those who have found hope, healing, and a renewed relationship with Christ through his ministry.
As we celebrate the 80th birthday of Rev. Umah Ukpai, we are reminded of the power of a life lived in selfless service to God and humanity. His enduring legacy serves as a testament to the transformative potential of faith, compassion, and service. May his life and ministry continue to inspire generations to come, reminding us that true greatness lies in selfless service and unwavering devotion to the Kingdom of God.
