The 2024 edition of Carnival Calabar has commenced in grand style with the governor of Cross River State in southern Nigeria, Senator Bassey Otu flagging off the event.
Governor Otu, who was represented by the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Mr. Elvert Ayambem presided over the ceremony, which was attended by the leaders of Bayside and Passion 4 bands, Mrs. Onari Duke and Mr. Chris Agibe.
In a brief remark before flagging off the 12 kilometres carnival, Otu reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the carnival, highlighting its role in boosting tourism, creating job opportunities, and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Cross River State to the world.
Key development platform
Governor Otu disclosed that his administration was fully invested in making this year’s carnival, which is the twentieth (20th), the best in its history, stressing that ‘Africa’s Biggest Street Party’s remained a key platform for economic growth and cultural exchange.
He said, “today marks yet another milestone, a very beautiful one at that. A dream that was conceived 20 years ago has become a reality. Cross River State has been consistent with carnival and as the years pass by, the carnival has grown bigger and bolder.”
The governor assured the public that this year’s carnival would deliver an unforgettable experience, building on its reputation as one of the most significant tourism events in Africa.
“I am assuring the people, our guests, visitors, tourists, and Carnival Calabar spectators all over the world that this year’s celebration will be bigger than previous years,” he said.
He used the opportunity to commended the Police Commissioner and other security chiefs for their support and cooperation during previous celebration as well as the first dryrun of 2024.
“Our Shared Prosperity”
During his opening, the Chairman of the Cross River State Carnival Commission, Mr. Gabe Onah described the dry run as a precursor to Africa’s biggest street party, emphasizing its role in preparing participants and ensuring that the Carnival Calabar remains a world-class event.
Onah said that with the well thought out theme of this year’s carnival, which is “Our Shared Prosperity”, the 2024 edition would be even more spectacular.
“We are celebrating 20 years although the Covid years made it impossible for us to take the bull by the horn. But, we have decided that this year with a well thought out theme by the governor, Senator Bassey Otu, it is time to take the celebration to another level.”
Continuing, Gabe said, “there is so much happening along the 12 kilometres carnival route – the businesses, the opportunities. For us in Cross River State, we have identified this subsector as a strategy to change lives, promote economic growth and develop our people. It is a street party and there is room for everyone.”
The dry run or rehearsal for the main carnival, which is the first of three, had the seven (7) carnival bands such as the 2023 Carnival Calabar winners, Passion 4 clad in green take centre stage closely followed by Seagull band identified by the colour red, on the move.
Other bands on the move were Freedom in the signature yellow, Onari Duke’s Bayside wore blue; Masta Blasta adorned orange, while CalasVegas and Diamond bands used gold and purple colours respectively.
The bands took to the streets of Calabar in vibrant costumes and colorful procession marked by music, dance and a display of cultural artistry.
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