Pastor (Dr.) Senior Gabriel Okpako Uyeh, JP, is a revered leader in the Christian faith and the head of The Apostolic Church, Nigeria. Born on January 8, 1944, in Uweye Quarters, Uzere Community, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria, Pastor Uyeh’s journey is a testament to God’s redemptive power and the transformative grace that led him from a heathen upbringing to becoming a pillar in the Church.

Raised in a family steeped in traditional worship, Pastor Uyeh served as a young priest in ancestral rituals, unaware of God’s divine plan for his life. His spiritual awakening came in 1962 when he encountered Christ and accepted Him as his personal Lord and Savior, marking a decisive shift toward a life of faith and service. Baptized by immersion on March 23, 1962, and filled with the Holy Spirit on April 21, 1962, Pastor Uyeh embraced a life of grace, guided by his motto, “Riches of Grace” (Ephesians 2:7–8).

Pastor Uyeh’s educational journey began at the Local Authority School, Uzere, where he completed primary education in 1958. He continued at the Secondary Modern School (1959–1961) and later earned a Diploma in Theology from TAC LAWNA Bible College, Ilesa, in 1975, under the mentorship of notable lecturers like Pastors G.O. Olutola and G.O. Ayorinde.

His ministry officially commenced on January 1, 1963, as a local worker in The Apostolic Church. Over the decades, Pastor Uyeh has held numerous leadership roles, demonstrating unwavering dedication and spiritual insight. He was ordained a Pastor in 1976, progressing through ranks to become the First District Apostle of Ozoro District (1990) and later the Area Superintendent of several regions, including Oleh, Maiduguri, Ode Aje, Markurdi, Olorunda-Ketu, and Lagos Area.

In July 2014, he was appointed to the LAWNA Executive Council and later to the National Executive Council (2014). His elevation to 1st Vice Chairman of LAWNA Territory (2017) culminated in his appointment as the 6th Territorial Chairman of The Apostolic Church Nigeria LAWNA Territory and National Vice President of The Apostolic Church Nigeria on October 24, 2023. His induction as Territorial Chairman and Vice President on December 3, 2023, marks a pinnacle in his ministry.

Pastor Uyeh’s contributions extend beyond spiritual leadership. In 1977, he played a pivotal role in translating the Bible and the TAC Redemption Hymnal into the Isoko language, fostering greater accessibility to God’s Word. His work with the Bible Society of Nigeria, Isoko Chapter and his involvement in establishing The Apostolic Church in Isoko land are enduring legacies.

Pastor Uyeh’s personal life reflects resilience and divine grace. He was married to Miss Janet Omosioni Aiawhobu, whom he tragically lost in 2001. In October 2001, he found renewed companionship in Deaconess Elizabeth E. Uyeh, his supportive wife and mother in Israel.

Pastor (Dr.) Senior Gabriel Okpako Uyeh’s life is a beacon of unwavering faith, servant leadership, and transformative impact, inspiring generations within The Apostolic Church Nigeria and beyond.

It was in recognition of his contribution to national development in the sphere of Christian Leadership that Pastor (Dr.) Senior Gabriel Okpako Uyeh JP was deemed worthy to be conferred with the Nigerian Achievement Award.