Category: Uncategorized

  • Breaking: Ex-pension boss convict slumps in Abuja office

    By Sadiya Abubakar

    Abdulrasheed Maina, former chairman of the defunct Pension Reform Task Team, has been hospitalised in Abuja after slumping outside his office on Tuesday, according to his aide.

    He reportedly lost balance due to complications from an untreated knee injury, fell on a staircase, and briefly passed out.

    Maina is currently under medical observation, with doctors considering air ambulance evacuation if his condition does not stabilise.

    He was recently released from prison after serving eight years in jail for pension fraud, following his conviction and eight-year sentence upheld by the Court of Appeal.

  • Teacher by Profession, Chef by Passion: The Inspiring Story of Ms. Hauwa Asinga

    Teacher by Profession, Chef by Passion: The Inspiring Story of Ms. Hauwa Asinga

    Teacher by Profession, Chef by Passion: The Inspiring Story of Ms. Hauwa Asinga

    TEC News|Nasarawa|15th December, 2025.

     

    Ms Hauwa Asinga
    CEO, Hasinga Food and Confectionaries.

     

    In an era when many educators grapple with balancing professional responsibilities and personal aspirations, Hauwa Asinga stands out as a compelling example of passion, productivity, and self-belief.

     

    A dedicated Home Economics Private School teacher in Akwanga, Ms. Asinga has extended her classroom lessons beyond school walls by building a thriving culinary brand, Hasinga Foods & Confectionaries.

    Located along Lafia Road, near Bethel Baptist Church, the business has earned a reputation for quality, taste, and timely service. From crispy pastries and assorted small chops to cake parfaits, wedding and birthday cakes, food trays, and richly prepared local delicacies, Hasinga Foods & Confectionaries has become a preferred choice for events and everyday meals alike.

     

    A TEC News correspondent, who had the privilege of tasting her food on two occasions, described the experience as

    “absolutely delightful,” commending the meals as “tasty, hygienic, and prepared with the touch of love only a passionate cook could provide.”

    Despite the demanding nature of her teaching role, Ms. Asinga continues to demonstrate that excellence in education can coexist with entrepreneurial success. Her consistency, creativity, and strong work ethic underscore the enduring value of vocational education, skill acquisition, and self-development.

    Today, Hasinga Foods & Confectionaries represents more than a business venture; it is a story of resilience, innovation, and the untapped potential within Nigeria’s teaching workforce. Patrons and admirers often echo the same sentiment:

     

    “If you’ve not tasted Hasinga food, you’ve missed something truly special. Most surprising is how the prices are lower than others that are even less in quality and taste ”

     

    Speaking with TEC News, Ms. Asinga encouraged members of the public to support local entrepreneurs, noting that bookings and timely deliveries can be made via +234 807 519 8619.

     

    “We can supply any type of food , soup or even snacks at your door step either home or office. Our staff are committed to excellent and swift sense of duties when it comes to service delivery. We are expecting enough order this festive period like every other one on the past or more”. Asinga said.

    She equally inform TEC News that Hasinga food and Confectionaries attend to customers from any works of life be it bachelor, spinsters who are too busy that would want us cook any meal or soup of interest that can be stored up in the freezer for daily warming before consumption. Individual and associations and during programs, seminars, workshop, religious gathering or services and other occasions like wedding, naming, lunching, burial , graduations etc.

     

    “We are for everyone who loves taste, hygiene and swift delivery”. Asinga added.

    She said her job as a teacher is never affected and if a clash is to happen she either let go the job or seek the understanding of her School Management and she said they have been cooperating . I cook for all occasions of my school and the leadership has been supportive . I don’t joke with the learning of my wards despite my passion for cooking. The CEO and Teacher said.

     

    TEC News proudly celebrates Ms. Hauwa Asinga, an educator, entrepreneur, and role model, whose life exemplifies excellence in both education and enterprise.

     

    Do you have an inspiring story worth sharing? Contact TEC News on 0701 327 6772, and let us reveal you to the world.

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  • Alleged N2.2bn fraud: Court remands Ngige in Kuje prison

    Alleged N2.2bn fraud: Court remands Ngige in Kuje prison

    An Abuja High Court on Friday remanded a former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, in Kuje Correctional Centre, pending the determination of his bail application

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Friday arraigned Ngige over alleged N2.2 billion fraud.

    Ngige, a former governor of Anambra , is facing eight counts of fraud and accepting bribes.

    The defendant served as the governor of Anambra under PDP platform from May 29, 2003, to March 17, 2006.

    He served as minister under former and late President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration from 2015 to 2023.

    The EFCC arrested on Ngige on Wednesday.

    He is being prosecuted for fraud, which he allegedly committed during his tenure as Minister of Labour and Employment.

    The EFCC accused him of awarding seven contracts worth over N366 million “for consultancy, training and supply by the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF)” to a company, Cezimo Nigeria Limited, belonging to his associate, Ezebinwa Charles.

    EFCC alleged that Ngige awarded eight contracts worth over N583 million to another company belonging to Mr Charles.

    The EFCC also alleged that the defendant used his position to give preferential treatment, awarding eight contracts worth over N362 million to a company, Jeff & Xris Limited, belonging to Nwosu Chukwunwike.

    Other companies he awarded contracts include Olde English Consolidated Limited and Shale Atlantic Intercontinental Services Limited, belonging to Uzoma Igbonwa to the sum of N668 million and N161million respectively.

    According to the EFCC, these offences violate section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.

    Also, the anti-graft agency accused Ngige of collecting gratifications from contractors of the NSITF through “his organization, called Senator (Dr Chris Nwabueze Ngige Campaign Organization from Cezimo Nigeria Limited (Zenith Bank Account Number 1011901119).”

    The EFCC further alleged that Ngige collected N38.6 million from Cezimo Nigeria Limited, N55 million from Zitacom Nigeria Limited and N26 million from Jeff & Xris Limited.

    This according to EFCC contravened section 17(a) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000 and is punishable under section 17(c) of the same Act.

    He however pleaded not guilty to all the charges.

    The EFCC’s counsel, Sylvanus Tahir, SAN applied for a trial date and urged the court to remand Ngige at Kuje Custodial Centre.

    However, counsel to Ngige, Patrick Ikwueto, SAN, noted that they were only informed of the arraignment yesterday and could not file for his bail application.

    Ikwueto urged the court to give Ngige a conditional bail on health grounds.

    He also attempted to move for an oral bail application for the defendant on self-recognition.
    Tahir noted that the court could not be presented with both a written and oral application.

    He also noted that Ngige is yet to submit his international passport, which was part of his previous bail conditions.

    Ikweto, however, noted that Ngige’s international passport was stolen, and the EFCC has been informed through a letter.

    Tahir denied knowledge about the report.

    Following their submissions, Justice, Maryam Hassan, ordered his remand at the Kuje Correctional Centre.

    Justice Hassan the adjourned until Monday  for hearing and determination of his bail application

  • TAJBank, NAHCON sign MoU on Hajj savings scheme

    TAJBank, NAHCON sign MoU on Hajj savings scheme

     

     

    TAJBank Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) on Hajj Savings Scheme (HSS).

    The Managing Director/CEO of TAJBank, Mr Hamid Joda made this known on Monday in Abuja, during the signing of the MoU.

    Joda said that it was in furtherance of its ethical banking drive to support worthy causes in Nigeria’s sustainable development.

    He said that the pact would further enable TAJBank to extend the frontiers of its socio-economic interventions to aspiring pilgrims nationwide, particularly at a time when airfares are surging.

    “Potential pilgrims are finding it challenging to cope with the rising costs of pilgrimage. Let me say that the MoU with the NAHCON on the HSS aligns with our mission to support the needy in Nigeria.

    ”With this deal, TAJBank will explore its strong digital platforms and physical networks in our branches to take the HSS to the grassroots and enable intending pilgrims to access funds at ease for their travels.

    “We are going to avail the opportunity created by our partnership with the NAHCON to demonstrate to Muslims intending to go on Hajj to consider TAJBank as their preferred choice among other lenders,” he said.

    The NAHCON Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Usman, said that the HSS had created a structured pathway for pilgrims in the country.

    According to Usman, in the past, many prospective pilgrims were eager to enroll but limited by inadequate awareness to funding.

    “With the collaboration with TAJBank and other non-interest banks on the HSS, the commission will rev up its sensitisation efforts.

    “This will be done through the Ulama, traditional and digital media platforms, to enlighten the public on the long-term benefits of the scheme,” he said.

    He commended TAJBank and the other banks for collaborating with the NAHCON in furtherance of its roles aimed at making Hajj easier for intending pilgrims.

    He assured that the commission would provide the required platform, guidelines and regulatory support for the successful implementation of the HSS.(NAN)

  • Insecurity: Private security practitioners laud Tinubu’s declaration of national security emergency

    Insecurity: Private security practitioners laud Tinubu’s declaration of national security emergency

     

    By Sumaila Ogbaje

    Association of Licensed Private Security Practitioners of Nigeria (ALPSPN) says President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of state of emergency on national security is timely and reflective of the nation’s urgent security realities.

    Retired Maj.-Gen. Elvis Njoku, Chairman, Interim Caretaker Management Committee of ALPSPN, gave the commendation while briefing newsmen on Wednesday in Abuja.

    Njoku said Tinubu’s decision underscored his administration’s seriousness in tackling insecurity and redefining national security priorities.

    He said the declaration had renewed confidence across the private security sector, adding that the industry was prepared to complement government efforts in safeguarding lives, property and critical infrastructure.

    “Since assuming office, President Tinubu has shown unwavering commitment to addressing insecurity head-on. The declaration of a security emergency is a bold step that places security where it belongs, at the top of national priorities,” he said.

    Njoku said the President’s ongoing reforms, including improved intelligence gathering, enhanced funding of security agencies and community-based policing initiatives, had already begun yielding results in several parts of the country.

    According to him, the reduction in banditry in some regions and the improved coordination among the security forces demonstrate the impact of these measures, despite recent upsurge in some northern states.

    He added that broader economic reforms aimed at reducing poverty and unemployment were also contributing indirectly to national security by addressing underlying social drivers of crime.

    Njoku, however, urged the Federal Government to scale up investments in technology-driven security solutions, including drones, AI-powered surveillance systems, light helicopters and quick-response platforms for troops across the country.

    “These technologies, integrated into existing security frameworks, will help preempt threats, track criminal elements and improve response times,” he said.

    The ALPSPN chairman also called for strengthened public-private partnerships through incentives such as tax breaks, grants for training and easier access to government security contracts.

    He said licensed private security practitioners possessed valuable expertise in risk assessment, surveillance and crowd management, and could contribute more effectively if integrated into national strategies.

    Njoku further recommended enhanced community engagement, including localised security committees involving private security practitioners, traditional leaders and civil society groups.

    He also advocated stricter control of small arms proliferation, improved border management, and mental health support for security personnel.

    “These suggestions are not criticisms but collaborative ideas drawn from our frontline experiences. Their implementation would significantly bolster our national security architecture,” he added.

    Njoku hailed the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for its professionalism and its role in protecting critical national assets and regulating private security companies.

    He called for deeper cooperation between ALPSPN and NSCDC, including joint training exercises, intelligence-sharing platforms and updated certification programmes for private guards.

    According to him, such collaboration would create synergy between public and private security actors and boost confidence in national efforts to combat insecurity.

    Njoku reaffirmed ALPSPN’s commitment to unity within the private security sector, urging practitioners to set aside differences and work together to professionalise the industry.

    “A united ALPSPN is a formidable force capable of driving innovation, improving standards and contributing significantly to Nigeria’s security and economic development,” he said.

    He encouraged members to actively participate in upcoming forums, workshops and elections as part of efforts to strengthen the association and usher in a democratically elected leadership.

    Njoku assured that the association remained committed to supporting the Federal Government and security agencies in building a safer and more prosperous Nigeria. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

  • RPI index exposes Africa’s trust gap: Governance under scrutiny

    RPI index exposes Africa’s trust gap: Governance under scrutiny

    The first RPI African Policy Index 2025, released by Reputation Poll International (RPI), says Africa’s biggest problem is not just bad policies. It is a growing “Trust Gap” between what governments do and what citizens think they achieve.

    The Index combines hard data on how well governments work with surveys of more than 25,000 Africans. It looks at both the mechanics of governance and the fragile bond of public confidence that makes those mechanics matter.

    The continent is split into three groups. A small group of “Leaders” scores above 70, showing that world‑class governance is possible in Africa.

    Mauritius leads with 78.9 points, followed by Seychelles (76.4) and Cabo Verde (74.8). These nations do well because strong economic management, high vaccination rates and transparent institutions are matched by high citizen trust.

    Botswana (73.2), Namibia (71.8) and Rwanda (70.1) are also in the top tier. They show that steady work in education, resource management and digital reforms can shrink the trust deficit almost to zero.

    Most of Africa, however, is far from this standard. More than 60 % of the 54 countries fall into the middle “Strugglers” tier (scores 50‑69.9). In these places policies often exist only on paper, or show only partial results, but they do not win public faith.

    Nigeria (52.3), South Africa (55.7), Angola (48.9), Egypt (51.2) and Zimbabwe (46.1) have the widest Trust Gaps on the continent – sometimes more than 25 points between the objective scores and what people think.

    In Nigeria, anti‑corruption laws look good on paper but public trust collapses because people see elite impunity. In South Africa, progressive land and social‑grant laws look good on paper, but protests over services and racial inequality create deep skepticism.

    Angola and Egypt show similar patterns: oil wealth and big infrastructure projects do not make citizens feel the government works for them.

    The hardest cases are the 18 “Systemic Challengers” that score below 50, from Sierra Leone (49.2) down to South Sudan (28.4).

    Here, broken institutions, constant insecurity and a loss of legitimacy create Trust Gaps that average about 35 points. Even small reforms – peace deals, health outreach, budget changes – are drowned out by daily violence, displacement and exclusion.

    Regionally, Central Africa performs worst with an average score of just 41.2. Southern Africa leads the top tier, while West, East and North Africa show mixed and often disappointing results.

    The Index’s main message is clear: without a real effort to close the Trust Gap, no amount of policy ambition will bring stable, legitimate governance.

    Mauritius and Botswana succeed not because they are rich, but because they actively involve citizens in monitoring and giving feedback. Most other countries do not.

    The report says that until governments treat public perception as a measurable outcome – through transparent data, regular citizen audits and visible accountability – the cycle of disillusionment, protest and institutional decay will continue.

    As Africa faces debt, climate shocks and youth unemployment, the RPI African Policy Index 2025 is both a warning and a roadmap: bridge the Trust Gap, or watch the continent’s governance crisis get deeper.(NAN)

     

  • DICON–D7G delivers first batch of indigenous rifles, targets 60m ammunition rounds annually

    DICON–D7G delivers first batch of indigenous rifles, targets 60m ammunition rounds annually

     

     

    The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria–D7G (DICON–D7G), has successfully assembled about 1,000 units of the upgraded “DG-103” rifle in two months of start of operations in Kaduna.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the DG-103 is a locally licensed version of the reliable Russian Kalashnikov AK-103 assault rifle, chambered for the 7.62x39mm M43 cartridge.

    The Chief Executive Officer of DICON-D7G, Mr Osman Chennar, disclosed this while briefing newsmen at the company’s headquarters in Abuja.

    The Director, Land Systems, Innovation, Research and Development at DICON-D7G, retired Maj.-Gen. Mainasara Masanawa, briefed newsmen on behalf of the CEO.

    Chennar said it was a major breakthrough in the renewed push for local arms production in Nigeria.

    He said all rifles in the first batch had passed rigorous testing and certification, meeting operational standards of the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies.

    Chennar added that the company was simultaneously producing drones and anti-drone systems equipped with early-warning capabilities to support frontline troops.

    “With full operations now underway, our target is to produce 60 million rounds of ammunition annually, reaffirming the company’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence ecosystem,” he said.

    Chennar revealed that the organisation would by February 2026 acquire a military jetty in Lagos, adding that the facility would host a production line, warehouses and accommodation for personnel.

    He said the acquisition would significantly scale up local capacity and open new windows for exporting defence equipment to neighbouring African countries.

    According to him, the milestones represent only the beginning of broader efforts to deepen self-reliance and enhance national security readiness.

    “Plans are also in motion to establish a shipyard at the jetty for the servicing and maintenance of naval vessels.

    “DICON–D7G is a central player in the defence industrialisation component of the Renewed Hope agenda,” he said. (NAN)

  • CUPP lauds Tinubu on road projects, calls for consistency

    CUPP lauds Tinubu on road projects, calls for consistency

    By Isaac Aregbesola

    The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for his impressive road infrastructure projects across the country.

    Its National Spokesperson, Mark Adebayo, said this in a statement on Saturday in Abuja, after an inspection of the Abuja-Lokoja-Benin Road, among others.

    Adebayo said that the coalition rated the current administration “very good” in the area of road infrastructure.

    He said that the opposition parties came to the conclusion after a painstaking assessment of work done in various sectors of the Nigerian economy in the last two years.

    According to him members of the steering committee of the CUPP were on the independent inspection team.

    He said their intention was to go by themselves to assess the situation across key zones, so as to be able to counter the Federal Government’s propaganda in that sector.

    ”They, however, affirmed that what they met on ground was so impressive that there was no way anyone who had the interest of the country at heart would play politics with such positive findings.

    “Those who were on the inspection tour were Mr Emeka Igwe, a member of the Steering Committee of CUPP; Mrs Grace Ishaku, Steering Committee member and Dr Abayọmi Runsewe, Steering Committee Member.

    ”Also in the team were Amb Abbah Lewis, Steering Committee member, and National Spokesperson, Adebayo, among others.

    ”As 2025 draws to a close, coalition members have been analysing work done in various sectors of the Nigerian economy under the current administration.

    “This is necessary for constructive criticism of the activities of the Federal Government and to task both leaders and the electorate ahead of the 2027 election,” he said.

    He said that the CUPP steering committee carried out a field assessment of select road projects nationwide.

    The opposition Spokesperson said that the intention was to separate facts from government propaganda.

    “We might have set out initially to puncture claims of achievements by the All Progressives Congress government, especially in infrastructure development, but the impression we got in this first phase of our nationwide inspection was very positive.

    “To foster the kind of development that citizens desire for Nigeria, opposition members must acknowledge when something is being done right.”

    He quoted Benjamin as saying ”this is why we are stating, emphatically, that, after this first phase of our independent inspection of road projects, we can safely conclude that President Bola Tinubu has done very well with road infrastructure.

    ”Kudos goes to the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi. ”

    According to him, from the assessment of various sectors, so far, Umahi is inarguably the hardest working minister in the current administration, many factors considered.

    ”The many road construction and rehabilitation projects that are ongoing simultaneously across this country are incredibly vast and ambitious in scope.

    “Even as opposition, if you see a positive development in the activities of the government, you should say it. Everything is not about criticism and condemnation. Constructive criticism also entails acknowledging good works where available.

    “We are also impressed by the humaneness recently displayed by the minister when he sent a delegation from the Works Ministry to condole with the people of Essan Community in Katcha Local Government Area of Niger State, following the recent tragic tanker explosion that claimed several lives and destroyed properties.

    “He sent the delegation, not only to deliver the Federal Government’s message of sympathy, but to also assure the community that the road would be fixed promptly. That was a demonstration of purposeful leadership.”

    According to him, the coalition members took turns to explain that, from their field findings, it was discovered that contractors were on-site working on multifarious road projects across the country.

    ”They were applying new methods of road construction that combined concrete with iron for durability and higher carriage capacity in many places.

    “Such roads where contractors are fully on-site include: the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway; Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway (Phase 1); Benin–Shagamu–Ore road.

    ”Others are Enugu–Onitsha Expressway; Abuja-Lokoja-Benin Road, currently undergoing dualisation, using concrete technology.

    “Before the year runs out, we plan to embark on more on-site assessment tours and give practical feedback to the public and necessary advice to the government on our observations where necessary.”

    He said that from the practical performance indicator analysis, CUPP could safely say that if the government continued to apply the current energy and needed resources to Nigeria’s road networks, the bad roads syndrome that had been a nightmare for the country for a long time would be a thing of the past.

    “The minister has demonstrated that a Works Minister’s job is on the field and not in air-conditioned offices. He is always seen on the road carrying out inspection and giving professional instructions

    “As they say, seeing is believing. We have gone to see. From what we have observed so far, the current administration is working well in that area.

    ”Senator David Umahi may end up being the best Works Minister so far if he continues with his current trajectory. This sector is one where President Tinubu has definitely scored very high.

    “However, we like to remind the government that every Nigerian reserves the right to harmlessly observe government projects as part of citizens’ civic responsibilities without harassment from security agencies.

    ” It provides an alternative feedback mechanism of government activities to the public,” he noted.(NAN)

  • Rotary urges mothers to champion polio eradication nationwide

    Rotary urges mothers to champion polio eradication nationwide

     

    NAN

    The District Governor of Rotary International, District 9141, Mr Anthony Woghiren, has urged mothers to become ambassadors in the fight against polio across Nigeria.

    Woghiren made the call on Thursday in Kuje, Federal Capital Territory, during an immunisation outreach held to commemorate the 2025 World Polio Day at a Primary Health Centre in Kuje.

    He said mothers play a vital role in ensuring children between zero and five years received polio immunisation, stressing the importance of increased awareness among women at the grassroots level.

    “I have instructed mothers to be our ambassadors, tell their friends and pregnant women that every child must receive immunisation to prevent any form of polio,” Woghiren said.

    He noted that Rotary International had long championed the fight against polio to ensure its complete eradication from every part of the world.

    According to him, only Afghanistan and Pakistan still report cases of wild poliovirus, while global eradication efforts have achieved a 99.9 per cent success rate.

    Woghiren said Rotary’s goal was to achieve total eradication of polio before 2030, recalling that Nigeria was certified free of the wild poliovirus in 2020.

    He explained that Rotary continued to implement various programmes aimed at sustaining zero-polio status and preventing any resurgence of the disease in the country.

    Rotary, he said, had intensified public sensitisation through social media, community outreach, and awareness campaigns across cities, markets, and rural areas to promote vaccination.

    “We need support because we cannot do it alone. We appeal to well-spirited individuals to contribute to the Rotary Polio Fund,” Woghiren said.

    He explained that funds raised were used to procure vaccines and supported health workers conducting immunisation exercises nationwide.

    Woghiren urged mothers to embrace the programme, warning that refusal to vaccinate could expose their children to the risk of contracting polio(NAN)

  • Renowned Nigerian world evangelist Uma Ukpai dies @ 80

    Renowned Nigerian world evangelist Uma Ukpai dies @ 80

    Dr Uma Ukpai, a famous Nigerian cleric, international evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), has passed away at the age of 80.

    His family announced his passing on his official Instagram page, @Uma_Ukpai, on Monday,   stating that the revered preacher and tele-evangelist died on Oct. 6.

    Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai’s ministry was non-denominational in nature, and he led the UUEA, headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.

    In the statement titled “With hearts full of gratitude, we celebrate the triumphant homegoing of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai,” the family expressed deep appreciation to God for his life of impact and service to humanity.

    “With hearts full of gratitude, we celebrate the triumphant home going of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who passed on to glory on Oct. 6, 2025, at the age of 80.

    “A faithful soldier of the cross has been called to rest.

    “He dedicated over six decades of his life to fiery evangelism, dynamic teaching of the Word and prophetic demonstrations of the power of God.

    “He impacted millions of lives and transformed destinies within Nigeria and across the globe.”

    According to the statement, Ukpai, a medical doctor, was a spiritual general known for evangelism and a founding father of faith.

    It stated that he was a loving husband, devoted father and mentor to many, and his life was a testament to God’s power and love.

    “While we mourn his physical absence, we rejoice that he has finished his race and is now resting in eternal praise.

    “Details of the obsequies will be announced in due course by the family.

    “We are grateful to God for his extraordinary life and enduring legacy, for indeed, ‘to live is Christ, and to die is gain.’ Phil 1:21.”

    He is survived by his wife, children, and spiritual protégés.

    His ministry, which spanned continents, brought salvation, healing, and hopes to millions across Nigeria and beyond.

    Born on 7 Jan. 1945 in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State, Rev. Ukpai began his ministry after a challenging childhood marked by the loss of his father at the age of 10.

    Ukpai rose to national prominence in the 1970s and 1980s through his dynamic preaching and miracle crusades that drew thousands.

    He was also one of the founding fathers of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), a body that united Pentecostal and Charismatic churches across the nation to promote revival and spiritual growth.

    Through his ministry, he established faith-based institutions, including the Uma Ukpai Eye Centre, King of Kings Hospital, Uma Ukpai Polytechnic, and the Uma Ukpai School of Theology and Biblical Studies.

    These institutions, alongside his various outreach initiatives, reflected his commitment to both spiritual growth and social impact