Ruth Semilore
Christmas in Nigeria is a time for family reunions, festive decorations, and songs concerts to welcome individuals into the holiday season.
Nigerian Christmas songs and carols frequently reflect the country’s cultural richness and cheerful attitude, fusing traditional rhythms with modern ones to create distinct sounds that echo throughout the season.
Here are ten popular Nigerian Christmas songs and carols that can warm your heart and add rhythm to your holiday festivities.
1] Elu Agogo Keresimesi
Elu Agogo Keresimesi” is a popular Yoruba Christmas song written and produced by Ife Ogunwumiju. The hymn, ‘Christmas Bells Are Ringing,’ is an expression of joy and celebration commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.
2] Long Time Ago In Bethlehem
Another popular Christmas carol in Nigeria is Long Time Ago in Bethlehem, which reflects on the humble and meaningful beginning of his life. While the carol was penned by renowned composer and musician Dr. Thomas A. Dorsey, its timeless message resonates well with Nigerian audiences, and it is frequently performed during Christmas celebrations around the country.
3] 12 Days of Christmas
The carol’s original creator is unknown, as it is a traditional English folk from the 18th century. Over time, the song has been reinterpreted in numerous cultures, including Nigerian renditions such as the Naija Boys version, which gives the classic carol a local and funny touch.
4] Odun, nlo sopin
Odun Nlo Sopin is a popular Nigerian Christmas carol sung by the CAC Good Women’s Choir. The title translates to ‘The Year is Ending’ and is typically played during Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.
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This carol, like many other Nigerian Christmas tunes, incorporates traditional Yoruba rhythms with church choir arrangements to create a joyous and uplifting atmosphere throughout the holidays.
5] Silent Night
Silent Night, another well-known Christmas carol, was originally performed on Christmas Eve in Austria in 1818. Since then, “Silent Night” has been translated into more than 300 languages and is regarded as one of the most popular Christmas carols worldwide.
6] Hark the Herald Angels Sing
Hark The Herald Angels Sing is a Christmas carol composed by Charles Wesley in 1739. The words celebrate Christ’s birth and the peace and goodwill that come with it.
In Nigeria, this carol has become a Christmas service and gathering staple, frequently performed with local adjustments in many languages and styles, including Afrobeat versions.
7] Feliz Navidad
Feliz Navidad is a classic Christmas song that José Feliciano wrote and performed in 1970.
In Nigeria, this song has become popular during Christmas celebrations, particularly in neighborhoods where both English and local languages are spoken. Its cheerful and joyful tune makes it a popular choice at parties, church sessions, and gatherings where people from many backgrounds come together to celebrate the holidays. Its message of joy and unity resonates with Nigeria’s diverse and joyous atmosphere throughout the Christmas season.
8] We wish you a Merry Christmas
We Wish You a Merry Christmas is a classic English Christmas carol that began in England.
A Nigerian version of the famous carol, frequently performed in Pidgin or local languages, with a fun tone and traditional beats, making it a joyous must-have.
9] Joy to the world
Joy to the World is one of Nigeria’s popular Christmas carols. It is based on Psalm 98, which emphasizes delight and gratitude for God’s rule over the globe and His return to provide salvation. George I Frideric Handel composed the melody, but the hymn has been arranged in several ways. You will never miss Nigeria’s Christmas carol.
10] Come, All Ye Faithful
O Come, All Ye Faithful is a classic Christmas carol recognized for its upbeat and welcoming lyrics.
These songs capture Nigeria’s joyful Christmas atmosphere, combining local styles with global themes to create a one-of-a-kind festive experience.
