On October 16, 2025, the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria (PC) visited the residence of the late Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to pay their respects and offer condolences to the grieving family.

The visit was led by Most Rev. Prof. Miracle Ajah, Principal Clerk of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, accompanied by several distinguished leaders within the church.

The delegation, which arrived at the late Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai’s residence by 11:30 a.m., was warmly received by his widow, Rev. (Mrs.) Philomena Onwanma Uma Ukpai, their son Mr. Emeka, as well as close relatives and friends. Upon arrival, the PC delegation endorsed the mourning book placed at the entrance of the residence on behalf of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, marking the solemnity of the occasion.

Among the dignitaries accompanying . . were: Rt. Rev. Dien Aniyom, Director of Presbyterian Church Services and Development (PCS&D); Rev. Albert Ikechukwu Chima, Desk Officer, Department of Information and Public Affairs, Rt. Rev. Amb. Enene Oku, Clerk of Akwa Synod; Rt. Rev. Itoro Johnson, Clerk of Abasi Ibom Synod, and Rt. Rev. Clifford Udosen, Moderator of Uyo Presbytery, Very Rev. Victor Udok, Moderator of Uyo Central Presbytery, Very Ufot Bassey, Clerk of Uyo Central, Rev. Uwem Etukakpan, Minister in charge of Uyo Parish, Rev. Umo Ekpo, Minister in charge of Uyo Mode Parish

As part of the visit, Bro. Israel Anyanele was present and led a few choruses, uplifting the spirits of the gathered mourners. Following this, Most Rev. Prof. Ajah delivered a heartfelt speech on behalf of the Presbyterian Church, offering words of encouragement and presenting a condolence letter to the bereaved family.

In her response, Rev. (Mrs.) Philomena Onwanma Uma Ukpai expressed deep gratitude to the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria for taking time out to visit her family in their moment of grief.

She also appreciated the outpouring of support from the various sons and daughters of her late husband, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, noting the wide-reaching influence of his life and ministry.

She recalled how her mother had been discipled by the early Presbyterian missionaries in Arochukwu, and how Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai’s profound impact had led to tributes from the presidency, the House of Representatives, state governors, churches, businesses, and individuals from far and wide.

In a heartfelt reflection on her life with her late husband, Mrs. Uma shared that she had no regrets in marrying Rev. Dr Uma Ukpai, a man of God with a deep conviction of his calling. She fondly recalled how they started their life together, with little more than a bike, yet trusting in God’s provision.

She remarked that her husband’s life was a testament to the fact that while men may be the source of wealth, God is the true beginning of it.

Mrs. Ukpai also encouraged younger women to look beyond the challenges of ministry and marry men of conviction, especially those who are called by God. She stated that her journey with her late husband had shown her that he was not just a man but a vessel through which God worked in mysterious ways.

Reflecting on the love and unity in their marriage, Mrs. Uma shared how Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai would always ensure that any marital disputes were settled before going to bed, no matter who was at fault, an example she described as worthy of emulation.

In her closing words, she expressed her belief that, through divine revelation, she is confident that her late husband is being ushered into heaven by angels, a fitting reward for a life well-lived in service to God and humanity.

The visit concluded with a closing prayer and benediction by the PC, Most Rev Prof. Miracle Ajah, marking the end of a moment and deeply emotional occasion for all present. The Presbyterian Church of Nigeria continues to stand with the Uma family, offering comfort and support during this difficult time.