Otito Diri Chineke

"Otito Diri Chineke" is a joyful and rhythmic Igbo setting of the Gloria, composed by Jude Nnam. Written entirely in solfa notation, this piece captures the festive spirit of the Catholic Mass in Nigeria. The choir opens with a bright, declarative chorus—"Otito diri Chineke n'elu kacha elu n'uwa" (Glory to God in the highest)—before moving into a steady, uplifting refrain that wishes peace to people of good will.

The verses are arranged as short, responsive phrases, allowing the sopranos and altos to lead the congregation through the traditional text of the Gloria. From praising God the Father ("Oseb'ruwa Chineke") to pleading for mercy from the Lamb of God ("Nwaturu nke Chineke"), the melody remains engaging and deeply prayerful.

Choirs typically sing this during the Introductory Rites on Sundays and feast days. Its structured call-and-response feel makes it easy for the assembly to join in the refrain, building up to a resounding, multi-layered "Amen" that brings the hymn to a triumphant close.