Cross River State Governor Promises Most Spectacular Carnival Calabar

The governor of Cross River State in southern Nigeria, Senator Bassey Otu has promised to deliver the most  spectacular Carnival Calabar ever.

Governor Otu made the promise during the flag-off of the final dry run for the 2024 event slated to be held on December 28 this year.

Speaking at the ceremony, the governor, represented by deputy speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Mr. Sylvester, Again assured that this year’s celebration, themed “Our Shared Prosperity,” would be larger and more innovative than any previous edition.

Otu, who commended the Cross River State Carnival Commission for the dedication to organizing the annual event, said “this year, I promise we will do exploits.

This carnival themed ‘our shared prosperity‘ is to create job opportunities for our people.

It also means there is something good for everyone because we are in the season of sweetness.”

He further emphasized that the carnival would solidify its status as Africa’s biggest street party, attracting tourists and showcasing the cultural richness of Cross River State.

Earlier, the chairman of the commission, Mr. Gabe Onah said that the commission has continually improved on carnival

offerings each year, stating that this year a raffle draw, where spectators would win cash prizes, was on the menu.

Gabe said, “we were challenged to increase the revenue stint of the carnival sector, which is the reason we decided to introduce a raffle draw for everyone to participate and also win prizes.

The raffle draw is tagged ‘Yanga Games’ and the end on December 29th with what we call a mega jackpot.

“We are also partnering with an acclaimed insurance company known as International Energy Insurance (IEI) company and Afrexim bank amongst others to give this year’s carnival the much needed boost. This means there is so much that the people, the revelers and spectators stand to benefit from,” he said.

The 20th edition of the carnival will feature seven competing bands identified by colours, which make up the carnival logo and these include green representing Passion 4, Seagull is identified by red, yellow is Freedom; Bayside wears blue, Masta Blasta adorns orange, while CalasVegas and Diamond use gold and purple respectively.

Spectators expect to see vibrant performances as the seven bands including none competing ones such as the UNICAL and Hit FM join in the move along the designated 12-Kilometre route.

Victoria Ibanga