Children Take Centre Stage at Carnival 2023

After eight years of relegation, the Children’s Carnival, a product of the Cross River State Carnival Commission, has bounced back with pomp and pageantry as seven bands participated in the 4 kilometres street party.

The very colourful and exciting event was flagged off by the wife of the Cross River State governor, Reverend Eyoanwan Otu alongside Nigeria’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, former Special Adviser to President Olusegun Obasanjo on Legislative Matter, Princess Florence Ita-Giwa.

The children on the carnival float held spectators spellbound with their well choreographed dance steps, colourful decorations and creative costumes as the contestants for the maiden edition of the Queen of Humanity Beauty contest graced the event with pomp and pageantry.

The governor’s wife and her companions exuded grace and warmth as they addressed the young revelers, who were extremely delighted to be participating in the their first ever carnival.

The red colour clad Seagull band opened the set the bar with an electric performance as at each stage of the float, the children adorned in spectacular, sequinned and sparkly costumes showcased unique talents, skills and dexterity at each of the three adjudication points on the carnival route.

In her remarks, the governor’s wife reiterated the commitment of the Senator Bassey Otu’s administration to the well-being and development of children, as she urged them to embrace their dreams and reach for the stars.

She said, “children are the future of any great nation and what we have to do is to encourage them with values of the society and give them what it takes to add value to their lives.

“We are here to expose them to the things they really require in life. We are here to encourage the children to come out and enjoy themselves and give them all we have that would be of value to them in the future,” she said.

Also speaking at the children’s carnival Flagg off was the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Edu, who stated “this is indeed an opportunity to preach humanity, there is nothing greater than being humane to another person. It is bigger than religion or anything else. Showing love, compassion and kindness to others are what I believe this carnival represents.”

Edu advocated for an end to wars around the world and Nigeria in particular, noting “as a nation, as a people, we raise a voice for humanity, to say that we should bring an end to every war, massacre, every uncalled for killing everywhere around the world and in Nigeria.

“We must be our brothers keeper and we must value what God has given to us, which is life. So, do not take another ones life and be humane in everything you do for this is the humanity carnival”, she urged.

The children were part of Seagull band, which is always identified by the colour red, those in Diamond wore purpose and the children under Freedom band generally used yellow attire.

The other bands included Bayside dressed in blue, Masta Blasta band kids used orange, CalasVegas spotted Gold and Passion 4 children wore green coloured costumes.