Arriving in Perth on the 25 October as part of Nigeria’s official delegation to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, it was the first time the professional vocalist had been to Australia.
“I am so glad to sing your anthem. I love your country and I’m so pleased to have this privilege,” Mr Obidile told a crowd of keen soccer and netball players shortly before the official kick-off.
The Rome-based vocalist might have been a stranger to Australia up until recently, but he is no stranger to the Church.
Since 2009, he has been the permanent cantor at Chiesa Santa Susanna – the official American church in Rome – leading the choir and congregation in worship.
Before that, he was a member of a Vatican choir, the Cappella Guilia, singing Gregorian chant and polyphony in St Peter’s Basilica at solemn functions.
“Now I’m also a freelance vocalist. Most of my work comes from people who have heard me sing live,” Mr Obidile told The Record.
Born and raised in Onicha, Nigeria, Mr Obidile moved to Rome to study music in 2007.
He was contracted to sing during the CHOGM Business Forum at Burswood from 25-27 October in which government leaders met with local and international business representatives.
Mr Obidile stayed on in Perth after the conclusion of CHOGM specifically to sing the anthem at the tournament, taking place at Mercy College, Mirrabooka on Sunday 6 November.
An Australian-based priest he knew put him in contact with mutual friend, tournament organiser and assistant priest at Mirrabooka, Fr Bonaventure Echeta. Mr Obidile is in the process of recording an album in London which he hopes will showcase his talent to a wider audience, including future clients.