Kristi Abiago

"Kristi Abiago" is a vibrant Igbo Christmas carol that announces the birth of Jesus with pure, infectious joy. The words ring out as a glad announcement that Christ has come, calling the entire world to rejoice because the Son of God has been made man. With its lively rhythm and celebratory tone, it is a perfect choice for a choir to sing during the Christmas season, especially as an Entrance or Recessional hymn to lift the spirits of the congregation.

The structure of the piece beautifully balances praise with the telling of the Nativity story. The refrain is built on joyful, repeating exclamations, reminding the faithful over and over that the Savior is born in a manger ("Amụrụ ya n'ụlọanụ eh"). The verses then walk the choir through the events of Christmas, from the journey to Bethlehem to the arrival of the Wise Men from the East bearing their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

In its final section, the song echoes the song of the angels, singing "Otito dịrị Chineke n'elu kacha sie ike" (Glory to God in the highest). It is a wonderful, energetic piece that captures the true excitement of the season, bringing the warmth and celebration of the Nativity directly into the choir loft.