The Christian Association of Nigeria in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory has mourned Evangelist Uma Ukpai.

The association described him as a preacher without borders whose legacy would continue to inspire many in the body of Christ.

Mr Ukpai, a renowned evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, died on October 6 at the age of 80 years.

In a condolence message signed by the Northern CAN chairman, Joseph Hayab, on Tuesday in Kaduna, he described the late Ukpai as an evangelist without borders whose ‘One Million Man Crusades’ brought revival and healing across Northern Nigeria.

He also said that the late evangelist’s ministry transformed lives and strengthened faith across denominational lines, adding that his passion for evangelism and unity left an enduring mark on the Christian community.

Mr Hayab recalled late Mr Ukpai’s visit to Northern Nigeria several times for his famous One Million Man Crusades, which recorded massive attendance, miracles, and numerous conversions to Christ.

“The blessings of his several One Million Man Crusades in Northern Nigeria remain evident. Many lives were turned to Christ, miracles happened, and souls were healed. He was a preacher with no national barrier,” he stated.

The CAN chairman further recalled that the late Mr Ukpai was warmly received by the then-Governor Ahmed Makarfi of Kaduna during one of his crusades, a gesture, he said, that reflected the evangelist’s wide acceptance and moral value across the country.

“He was widely respected for the work God did through him. The North and indeed Nigeria have lost a true servant of God whose voice of faith and hope will be greatly missed,” Mr Hayab added.

He, however, urged believers not to mourn as those without hope but to rejoice that the late Mr Ukpai finished well and has gone to be with the Lord whom he served faithfully.

The association extended condolences to the Ukpai family, the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, and the entire body of Christ, praying that God would comfort them and raise more labourers to continue the great evangelistic work he pioneered.

“Uma Ukpai finished well and left a legacy that will continue to echo in the history of evangelism in Nigeria,” he said.

(NAN)