The Cross River State Carnival Commission has intensified its fitness campaign ahead of Carnival Calabar 2026, urging Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), civil servants and members of the public to embrace regular physical exercise as part of efforts to promote healthy living and build physical stamina for the carnival season.
The Commissioner in charge of Marketing, Cross River State Carnival Commission, Mr. Effiom Bassey Effiom, made the call during the latest edition of the Carnival Fitness Jam in Calabar.
Effiom explained that the Carnival Fitness Jam was introduced by the Commission in 2025 as part of its preparations for Carnival Calabar and runs from June to December each year.
He said the initiative was designed to help participants build endurance and reduce the physical fatigue associated with carnival dry runs and the main carnival, while also encouraging Cross Riverians to adopt healthier lifestyles.
According to him, the fitness sessions bring together carnival marshals, band leaders, revellers, fitness instructors and members of the public to engage in physical exercises and prepare their bodies for the demands of the carnival season.
“The essence of it is to reduce the fatigue that usually comes during the dry run and the carnival. We have marshals, band leaders, revellers and the general public come out to exercise and keep themselves fit, getting ready for the carnival dry runs and the carnival itself,” he stated.
The Commissioner stressed that the fitness campaign was not exclusively for carnival participants, but was open to everyone, noting that wider participation would help promote a culture of fitness and healthy living across the State.
He therefore called on other MDAs, civil servants and residents to join the Commission’s fitness sessions and make physical exercise a regular part of their lifestyle.
“We all know that health is wealth, and exercise is one of the ways you can extend your life. We call on the State Government and other MDAs to join us in every Carnival Fitness Jam to sweat it out and exercise together,” Effiom said.
Speaking on Carnival Calabar 2026, the Commissioner assured residents and visitors of an exciting celebration, noting that the event would mark the 21st edition of the carnival.
He disclosed that the 2026 edition would be bigger and better, promising new experiences and surprises for participants and spectators.
Effiom also revealed that government officials and other public figures had participated in the fitness exercise, describing the growing turnout as encouraging.
He urged Cross Riverians and visitors to look forward to a memorable Carnival Calabar 2026, assuring that the Commission remained committed to delivering a successful, vibrant and entertaining carnival season.
By Ibu Harrywills
