As the Christian community mourns the passing of one of its most revered evangelists, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, gospel singer Frank Edwards has shared a heartfelt tribute, recalling a miraculous healing he received through the late preacher’s ministry.
In an emotional Instagram post, the “Under the Canopy” crooner revealed that he was healed of asthma and pneumonia at the age of eight during one of Rev. Ukpai’s crusades in Enugu.
“At age 8, I got healed of asthma and pneumonia in one of your crusades in Enugu! Thank you for specially impacting the world! You finished well, papa. Rest on,” Edwards wrote.
The award-winning gospel artist, who has often shared his testimony of overcoming chronic respiratory illness, described the encounter as a defining moment that liberated him from years of dependency on inhalers and allowed him to pursue his music career freely.
The family of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, founder and president of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, confirmed his passing on Monday in a statement titled “Glorious Transition.”
The 80-year-old evangelist, renowned for his fiery sermons, large-scale crusades, and emphasis on divine healing, died on October 6, leaving behind a legacy of faith, revival, and philanthropy anchored in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
His death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from believers, clergy, celebrities, and everyday Nigerians, who praised his lifelong devotion to spreading the gospel and empowering communities.
Rev. Ukpai’s crusades, known for drawing massive crowds across Nigeria and beyond, were often marked by testimonies of miracles, deliverance, and salvation. His ministry’s non-denominational approach promoted unity within the Pentecostal movement, while institutions like the Uma Ukpai Polytechnic and his scholarship foundation continue to impact lives.
As funeral arrangements are being finalized, his family has urged the public to reflect on Philippians 1:21: “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
Fans and fellow gospel artists have continued to celebrate his life and legacy, describing him as a faithful servant who “finished well.”
