Anani Binaebilayefa Newton, a Nigerian artist who collaborated extensively with the late evangelist Rev Dr Uma Ukpai, has shared heartfelt insights about his time working alongside the renowned preacher.
Inside the Journey with Rev Dr Uma Ukpai
In a heartfelt Facebook message, Newton detailed his long-standing role as a musician supporting Uma Ukpai’s crusades and church gatherings.
His first encounter with the evangelist was in 2006 at the Bayelsa One Million Man Crusade, where he was honored to perform live on stage.
Throughout the years, Newton also lent his voice for various voice-over projects related to the evangelist and experienced profound spiritual blessings through their association.
Recalling their final meeting in June 2025, Newton shared:
“When I last visited Uyo in June 2025, I met the bassist who plays for Dr Rev Uma Ukpai. We discussed recent events involving the musicians during daddy’s last visit to FLCC. Something stirred deeply within me, and I expressed, ‘I have a strong sense that daddy will soon be called home by God.’ He agreed with my feeling but was hesitant to accept it. Now, seeing the recent photos of Rev Dr Uma Ukpai, I realize he has indeed been welcomed into glory.”
A Testament of Faith and Commitment
Newton stressed that the passing of Uma Ukpai should inspire celebration rather than sorrow, honoring a life devoted to faith.
“To me, this is not a moment for mourning but a recognition of eternal rest for a warrior, echoing Apostle Paul’s words in 2 Timothy 4:7: ‘I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith,'” he expressed. “Truly, he fought valiantly and remained steadfast in faith. A crown awaits him where he will hear, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; enter into your rest.’ A spiritual leader and guardian has now joined the Lord!”
Newton reflected on how deeply transformative his relationship with the evangelist was, emphasizing the honor of performing alongside him and the divine blessings he received during their years of collaboration.
Legacy and Untold Narratives
Beyond his public ministry, Newton unveiled a lesser-known side of Uma Ukpai – his role as a mentor, his generosity, and unwavering dedication to his calling.
Newton revealed that working with the evangelist profoundly influenced not only his musical career but also his spiritual growth.
“This is deeply personal to me because since 2006, when I first met him at the Bayelsa crusade, I was privileged to perform on stage for him. I also had the chance to create a voice-over profile for God’s servant and received numerous blessings and divine favor through Dr Rev Uma Ukpai,” Newton recounted.
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