Abia State to Hold State Burial for Rev. Dr. Ukpai

The Abia State government will conduct a state burial service for the late Rev. Dr.

Uma Ukpai on March 26, 2026, at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia, starting at 10:00 AM. Rev.

Dr. Ukpai, a prominent Pentecostal preacher and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, passed away on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80.

Okei Kanu, the state commissioner for information, described the late cleric as a devoted ambassador of Christ whose ministry significantly impacted lives across Nigeria and beyond over six decades. The announcement was made following a state executive council meeting held on March 23, 2026.

The government also discussed various infrastructure projects, including road safety measures and urban beautification initiatives, but these details are unrelated to the primary story regarding Rev. Dr.

Ukpai's burial.