March 26, (THEWILL) — Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on Thursday, received the remains of renowned cleric, Rev. Uma Ukpai, at the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, describing the late evangelist as a devoted servant of God, whose ministry impacted lives across the world.
In an emotion-laden address at the airport, Governor Eno said the state was honoured to host the revered preacher in life and in death, noting that his spiritual influence transcended geographical boundaries.
“We are here to pay respect and receive the body of God’s servant, Rev. Uma Ukpai. He lived here, served God here, and from here touched different parts of the world”, the governor said. “On behalf of the government and people of Akwa Ibom State, we received his body today and formally handed it over to the President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria for onward movement to the cathedral, and subsequently to Abia State for interment.”
Governor Eno commended the late Ukpai’s unwavering commitment to the propagation of the Gospel, describing his passing as a significant loss to the Christian community and the nation at large.
Also speaking, the President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Francis Wale Oke, expressed gratitude to the Akwa Ibom State Government for its support and coordination in ensuring a dignified final journey for the late cleric.
He lauded the show of solidarity extended to the bereaved family, noting that the gesture reflects the high esteem in which Rev. Ukpai was held.
The solemn reception was attended by the widow of the deceased, Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, family members, senior government officials, and prominent clergy.
The remains of the late evangelist will be laid to rest on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in his hometown of Ohafia, Abia State.
