Governor Bassey Otu has pledged to elevate the Calabar Carnival to a global stage by 2025, building on its reputation as Africa’s largest street party.
Otu made this announcement on Saturday during the flag-off of the carnival’s street party at Millennium Park in Calabar.
The 2024 Calabar Carnival with the theme, “Our Shared Heritage,” kicked off in November and runs until December 31. It features seven competitive and seven non-competitive bands showcasing vibrant performances along the streets, culminating at the U.J. Esuene Stadium.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Governor Otu highlighted the significance of the event, which has been celebrated for nearly two decades.
“Today is a great day in the calendar history of Calabar. We are humbled to celebrate two decades of this event, which continues to grow in value and reach,” Otu said.
He hinted at introducing a diaspora band to further expand the carnival’s appeal, adding, “The diaspora is pressing hard, and we may have a full-strength diaspora band next year.”
The governor commended his predecessors, including Donald Duke, Liyel Imoke, and Ben Ayade, for sustaining and enhancing the carnival.
He also urged visitors to explore Calabar’s rich tourism assets, saying, “For first-time visitors, please stay back and experience the full hospitality of our people.”
Sponsors and Calls for Sustainability
Dr. Gabe Onah, Chairman of the Calabar Carnival Commission, expressed gratitude to sponsors, including Afreximbank, MTN, First Bank, and UBA, while urging them to take a more active role in developing the state’s tourism and hospitality sectors.
“We are witnessing a rebirth. The carnival is allegorical, didactic, and theatrical. It tells a story and speaks to Africa’s community spirit,” Onah said.
Commendations from Visiting Governors
The event drew dignitaries, including Governors Usman Ododo of Kogi State and AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, who lauded the carnival’s unifying and economic impact.
“This is a historic event showcasing love, understanding, and unity,” said Ododo, praising Governor Otu’s leadership and youth empowerment initiatives. AbdulRazaq added, “The Calabar Carnival places Nigeria on the global map and boosts the state’s internally generated revenue.”
The Calabar Carnival continues to set the standard for cultural celebrations in Africa, drawing tourists and fostering unity while offering a platform to showcase Cross River State’s rich heritage and hospitality.
