The Abia State Government, led by Governor Alex Otti, held a state burial service on Thursday to commemorate the life of renowned evangelist Uma Ukpai, who passed away at the age of 80.

The service, held at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia, attracted several notable dignitaries, including former presidential candidate Peter Obi, Bayelsa State Governor Duoye Diri, and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno. Also in attendance were Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, John Mbata.

Speaking at the event, Governor Otti urged citizens to live lives that would leave lasting legacies, emphasizing that Uma Ukpai “did not die but only transited,” and that his contributions would remain indelible. He encouraged Christians across Abia, Akwa Ibom, and beyond to emulate the evangelist’s life rather than mourn his passing.

Represented by his deputy, Akon Eyakenyi, Governor Eno described Uma Ukpai as a visionary who nurtured a generation of exemplary individuals.

In his sermon, the President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Francis Wale Oke, highlighted the evangelist’s dedication to God and humanity, noting that Uma Ukpai “did not serve money but worked for God and humanity.”

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, was among world leaders’ spouses at the “Fostering the Future Together Summit,” hosted by Melania Trump at the White House.

The high-level gathering brought together 45 first ladies to explore ways of expanding access to educational tools and protecting children in digital environments. Among notable attendees was Brigitte Macron, alongside other global representatives.

The summit focused on strengthening international collaboration to ensure young people are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world. Discussions also centred on strategies to safeguard children as technology continues to reshape education and daily life.

A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of an American-made humanoid artificial intelligence system, Figure 3, marking the first time such technology has been formally showcased to international leaders in a diplomatic setting at the White House.

Speaking during the summit, Melania Trump emphasised the growing influence of artificial intelligence in shaping the future.

“The future of AI is personified – it will be formed in the shape of humans. Very soon artificial intelligence will move from our mobile phones to humanoids that deliver utility,” she said.

She added that the advancement of AI could significantly reshape global dynamics, noting that children must be prepared to adapt and thrive within the emerging technological framework.

Officials from nine countries, including the United States, France, Poland, the United Arab Emirates, and Morocco, also presented national strategies aimed at integrating technology into their education systems and equipping students with relevant digital skills.

Melania Trump urged participating countries to deepen international partnerships to achieve the summit’s goals.

“Our coalition can make this vision real by supporting concrete initiatives that equip young people with the skills they need – invest, expand access, and foster new opportunity,” she said.