Abi Jesu Oyenmwen Nọ

When a choir begins "Abi Jesu Oyenmwen Nọ," the atmosphere in the church shifts immediately to pure celebration. The piece opens with a striking solo marked for a "Male Town Crier," echoing the traditional way of announcing great news to the community. He calls out the birth of the King, setting the stage before the full choir bursts into a lively, rhythmic chorus of "Oyenmwen nọ" (It is joy) and "Oghogho nọ" (It is happiness).

Written in Edo, this Christmas anthem captures the profound gladness of the Nativity. The lyrics weave the story of Christ's birth with the angels' song of glory to God in the highest and peace on earth. The rhythmic drive and the bright, repeating phrases make it incredibly engaging for the congregation. We often hear it sung during the Entrance procession or as a vibrant Thanksgiving piece at Christmas Mass, where the sheer energy of the music reflects the joy of the season.

The arrangement includes dynamic shifts, moving from the bold town crier's call to full choral harmonies, and later featuring a delicate soprano duet. It shows how indigenous melodies and cultural storytelling bring the mystery of the Nativity right into our local context, reminding us that the birth of Jesus is a reason for everyone to sing and rejoice.