Ya Ubangiji

"Ya Ubangiji" is a reverent Hausa setting of the Kyrie, composed by Jude Nnam. Written with the flowing, rhythmic polyphony that characterizes much of his choral writing, this piece brings a deep sense of devotion to the Penitential Rite. The voices weave together, echoing the plea for God's mercy ("ka yi mana jin kai") back and forth across the choir loft.

During Mass, this setting invites the congregation into a moment of genuine reflection before the Liturgy of the Word begins. The transition from the opening "Ya Ubangiji" (Lord, have mercy) to the Christe eleison section ("Ya Kristi") is handled with a gentle but earnest harmonic shift. It is a wonderful choice for choirs looking to bring the solemnity and warmth of Northern Nigerian liturgical languages into their worship.