Uwa Bu Olili

"Ụwa Bụ Olili" (The World is a Visit) is a deeply moving Igbo Catholic funeral hymn that reflects on the fleeting nature of earthly life. Composed by Alexander Hilary Ugwu C., the song reminds mourners that our time on earth is temporary—like attending a feast or a brief visit, eventually, everyone must return home. The gentle, steady rhythm of the solfa notation carries a message of faith, assuring the congregation that the departed has simply completed their earthly stay and is returning to the Father ("ka m jee kwuru Nna m o").

The lyrics offer profound comfort during times of loss. In the verses, the departed soul speaks directly to the living, acknowledging the deep pain of separation ("Ọ bụ eziokwu na ọ n'afụ ezigbo ụfụ") while urging them not to weep endlessly ("Unu ebezina"). The soul leaves a final piece of advice ("ndụmọdụ a ka m ji ana"): to love one another, just as Christ endured the cross. Sung during burials and requiem Masses, this piece provides a powerful moment of consolation for the choir and the grieving family.