E DON SHELE MARY DON BORN AWA SAVIOUR

"E Don Shele Mary Don Born Awa Saviour" is a vibrant, pan-Nigerian celebration of the Nativity. Written by Sir Adejoh John, this Christmas anthem bursts with the joyful news of Christ’s birth, blending Nigerian Pidgin English with a rich mix of indigenous languages. From the Hausa title "Sarkin duniya" (King of the world) to the Yoruba declaration "Imole de" (Light has come) and the Igbo joyful cry "Onyeze abiarula" (The King has come), the song gathers everyone into the celebration.

In the choir loft, this piece is a pure delight to sing during Carol services or as a lively recessional on Christmas Day. The melody drives forward with an irresistible highlife energy, calling the congregation to "make una dance, make una joli." It beautifully weaves in familiar festive elements—from the rhythmic shake of the "shekere" and "ekwe" to playful nods to "Jingo bell" and "Feliz Navidad."

What makes this arrangement so special is how it grounds the universal Christmas story in local soil. By the time the choir reaches the final Yoruba call to worship, "E wa ka lo juba" (Come let us worship), and the Igala praise "Kristi o che" (Christ the King), the song has taken the prophecy of the "Wonderful Counselor" and placed it right in the heart of the Nigerian church. It is a warm, spirited wish for peace, good health, and a "beta" new year for all who hear it.