Ewu Ene Hiyi Eyiza Odhe (Full of Grace)

"Ewu Ene Hiyi Eyiza Odhe" is a Marian motet that sets the traditional Hail Mary prayer in the Ebira language. Composed by Abel Obaje, the piece opens with a gentle, reverent solo call of "Makuvu Maria" before unfolding into a warm choral arrangement. The melody carries a deep sense of devotion, capturing the quiet reverence of the angelic salutation.

The score notes this was prepared for the St. Cecilia Choir at Kogi State University, Anyigba, and suggests it as an entrance hymn or a standalone motet. For a choir looking to bring indigenous languages into their Marian celebrations, this arrangement offers a wonderful option. The flowing solfa lines guide the voices through the familiar petitions of the prayer, building towards a solemn and unified "Ami" (Amen) at the close.

Singing the Hail Mary in local dialects brings the prayer closer to home for the congregation. During the month of October, on a feast day of Our Lady, or in a quiet moment of reflection before Mass begins, this Ebira setting invites everyone in the pews to seek the intercession of the Mother of God with renewed faith.