Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has eulogized renowned gospel evangelist, Rev. Uma Ukpai describing him as God’s Gift to the State.
In his remarks at a special service at the International Worship Centre, Uyo, to mark Ukpai’s 80th birthday, the Governor noted that at 80, the evangelist has made an incredible and enduring impact by sowing seeds, winning souls and expanding the Lord’s vineyad exponentially.
“I am here to join the Body of Christ to celebrate a great man of God on this joyous occasion. The theme of this celebratory event- the public lecture, is “The man from Ohafia” which is quite fitting given our father’s love for his place of birth and the pride the people of Ohafia feel about him.
“But if I may add a corollary to the theme, I would say “The Man from Ohafia and God’s Gift to Akwa Ibom. For the most part if not the entirety of our dear father’s life as an evangelist, and a Christian warrior, Akwa Ibom has been a fabric of his life. He has projected our dear State to all corners of the world through his evangelistic pursuits,” he added.
Governor Eno who extended birthday felicitation from his colleagues in the South South, lauded Rev. Ukpai for his support and prayers saying,h “We have benefited mightily from his wise spiritual counsel, the love he has shown to our people and our leaders is immense and we don’t take this for granted.
“My prayer is that God should continue to show mercy, grace, long life and unquantifiable blessings to the man from Ohafia whom God favoured in Akwa Ibom State to be a vessel of blessings to humanity. Happy birthday God’s own general!”
In his message, taken from Psalm 91:1, 14 -16, the Guest Speaker, Pastor Enoch Adeboye assured Christians that those who dwell in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty, and will perpetually enjoy safety.
He congratulated Rev. Uma Ukpai for joining the octogenarian’s circle, stressing that every man has an appointment to keep with God, and must be prepared for the appointment which could come sooner than expected.
The event was attended by the immediate past Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, Coordinator , Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Elder Udeme Otong, Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, prominent religious leaders including Rev. Ayo Oritsejafor, Bishop Mike Okonkwo, and others.
