- The 1985 Great Lagos Crusade and the Birth of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria
The history of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) is deeply intertwined with a pivotal event in Nigerian religious history: the 1985 Great Lagos Crusade, which was organized by the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association. This landmark crusade attracted a vast number of participants and served as a catalyst for the growth and unification of Pentecostal churches across the nation. The crusade had about 23,000 prayer volunteers, 3000 counselors, and 5000 choristers. For about 8 days, 84 buses were rented to take people to the venue. Rev Uma Ukpai, without a church base and not a foreign evangelist, was able to pull it through by the grace of God.
- The Founding Fathers and Growth of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria
In the aftermath of the crusade, several influential leaders from prominent Pentecostal denominations came together to discuss the need for greater collaboration and fellowship among their churches. This gathering of faith leaders led to the formation of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, a crucial initiative aimed at fostering unity and collective outreach within the Pentecostal movement.
Among the notable founding figures were church leaders like Benson Idahosa of the Church of God Mission, who was instrumental in promoting Pentecostalism in Nigeria; James Boyejo from the Four Square Church, who contributed significantly to the expansion of evangelical crusades; Mike Okonkwo of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission, known for his dynamic preaching and church growth strategies; and Charles Osuolale of the Assemblies of God Church, whose influence helped solidify the Pentecostal presence in Nigeria.
Other founding fathers included Wilson Badejo of the Foursquare Gospel Church, who emphasized the importance of holiness and the work of the Holy Spirit in believers’ lives; Elijah Abina from Gospel Faith Mission, known for his impactful evangelistic efforts; Oloruntoba Ezekiel of the Christian Pentecostal Mission, who championed the cause of spiritual revival; and Adejare Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, a leading figure whose ministry has reached a global audience.
Further contributions came from Sam Ukaegbu of Faith Cathedral, D. O. Ogunkami of Christian Gospel Mission, and G. E. Osio of Heavenly Hope Ministries, all of whom played significant roles in establishing and growing the PFN. Their collective vision and commitment to a unified Pentecostal voice laid the groundwork for the fellowship, enabling it to become a major force in shaping Nigeria’s religious landscape.
Today, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria continues to thrive, promoting unity among Pentecostal churches and addressing the spiritual and social needs of the Nigerian society.
- Papa Uma Ukpai’s Faithfulness to His Evangelistic Calling and Unique Ministry Model
The second point is that Papa Uma Ukpahi remained faithful to his calling as an evangelist. He never started a church of his own. In Nigeria today, the typical model for a successful minister has become the standard everyone follows. For example, having a campsite and a university is not what heaven requires from everyone. God might have a different plan for you than the popular, common model. As the word of God says, eyes have not seen; following the popular ministerial templates means you’re preventing God from revealing what eyes have not seen through you. May I ask who will open a Christian school for the blind and deaf? Who will start faith-based Polytechnics, Colleges of Education, and Technical Colleges? Let God direct you with his own expression, not the popular.
My personal experience of witnessing him preach is one that remains etched in my memory. It took place during a powerful night vigil at God Will Do It Ministry, led by the late G.F. Oyor, back in the late 90s. The event unfolded in their newly established facility located in Moniya, Ibadan, rather than at the more familiar Bodija location.
As the evening progressed, Papa Uma captivated us with a variety of songs, including the stirring “Eh Yahweh Kumama,” which filled the atmosphere with an overwhelming sense of worship. But it was his storytelling that truly left a profound impact on me. He recounted a deeply personal experience of dying and descending into hell, painting a vivid picture of his encounters and the stark reality of spiritual consequences.
In his message, he addressed the issue of besetting sin—persistent sins that challenge and ensnare believers—offering insightful reflections on how they can hinder one’s spiritual journey and relationship with God. He urged us all to remain vigilant about our conduct and spiritual walk in this life, reminding us of the eternal implications of our choices. His words resonated with a sense of urgency, urging us to be mindful and intentional in our faith as we navigate the challenges of existence on this side of eternity.
References
Abodunde, A. (2017). A heritage of faith (2nd ed.). Pierce Watershed. Lagos, Nigeria.
ThisDay Live. (2025, January 3). At 80, Rev. (Dr.) Uma Ukpai’s life of faith, miracles, and enduring legacy. Life & Style. https://www.thisdaylive.com/2025/01/03/at-80-rev-dr-uma-ukpais-life-of-faith-miracles-and-enduring-legacy/ thisdaylive.com
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