EDENA BI JESU

"Edena Bi Jesu" is a vibrant Edo Christmas carol arranged by the renowned Nigerian choral composer Laz Ekwueme. The piece announces the Nativity with infectious energy, declaring that the birth of Jesus brings love and calling everyone to celebrate and rejoice.

Choirs typically perform this piece during Christmas concerts, carol services, and the festive season's liturgies. The arrangement features a lively call-and-response section where a soloist leads the narrative ("Ijesu ri ye len re o") and the full choir answers with a rhythmic, driving refrain.

Ekwueme provides both the original Edo lyrics and an English translation directly in the score. This bilingual approach allows choirs to learn the traditional melody while sharing its joyful message with a wider congregation, capturing the bright, rhythmic bounce of a true Nigerian carol.