The iconic Carnival Calabar-one of the greatest tourism offerings of Cross River State, is marking a significant milestone this 2025, as it celebrates 20 years of showcasing
Nigeria's rich cultural heritage christened "Africa's Biggest Street Party .
Founded by Governor Donald Duke in 2004 then as Carnival float before it later metamorphosed into Carnival Calabar in 2005 with the formation of five competing Bands including Bayside, Sea Gull, Passion 4, Masta Blasta and Freedom Carnival Bands; the Carnival has grown into a premier tourism brand, boosting the State's economy through encouraging the growth of small scale enterprises and promoting unity among Nigerians and indeed Africa as a whole.
In its revolutionary trajectory, under the leadership of Governor Liyel Imoke, the Carnival from 2007, expanded its scope and appeal while solidifying its position as a major cultural event in the Calabar Festival programmes with the introduction of the Children Carnival, King and Queen Competition as well as the Miss Carnival Beauty Pageant.
Then came the tenure of Governor Benedict Ayade, who scrupulously continued to support and enhance the Carnival 's activities with the introduction of Miss Africa beauty Pageant alongside other innovative offerings to give it that African appeal as well as expand its scope and iced it with the introduction of two additional competing Bands- Diamond and Calas Vegas Bands.
In 2023, being his first outing, Governor Bassey Edet Otu introduced an innovative theme, "Season of Sweetness", which emphasized on the importance of community cohesion and people centred inclusiveness.
Building on this success, the 2024 edition focused on "Shared Prosperity", to highlight the benefits of collaboration and mutual growth. Governor Otu went on to decentralised the Carnival celebration in the State through the introduction of the Ikom and Ogoja Carnivals, to accommodate residents of Local Government Areas in the Central and Northern Senatorial Districts of the State, respectively. In addition, the Governor through the Carnival Commission Law provided a legal framework for the operations of the Carnival as an entity in the State. His tenure has also witnessed the introduction of the Miss Humanity Beauty Pageant, the Diaspora Carnival Band as well as the massive light up of major Streets in the Calabar Metropolis. This year's edition themed "Traces of Time", is the marking the 20th Anniversary of the Annual showpiece.
Over the years, Carnival Calabar has featured spectacular parades, live music performances and cultural exhibitions, attracting a large population of visitors from across the globe into Calabar for the annual extravaganza .The event has also provided a platform for local artistes, artisans and businesses to showcase their talents and products as well as advanced their enterprises.
Carnival Calabar is a testament to the power of culture in driving economic growth and social cohesion", said Governor Bassey Otu. "We are committed to sustaining this legacy and exploring new ways to promote our rich heritage."
As we celebrate two decades of Carnival Calabar , Tourism stakeholders in Nigeria are optimistic about its continued success following its rich history, vibrant culture and commitment to innovation, making it a shining example of Nigeria's cultural excellence.
Furthermore, examining its overall gains, one will definitely agree that a 20 year milestone is significant for several reasons. Indeed ,the Carnival Calabar has played a crucial role in preserving and promoting Nigeria's cultural appeal showcasing it rich history, music and art.
As a major tourist attraction, it has contributed significantly to Cross River State's economy, generating substantive revenue and creating over ten thousand jobs through the craft, fashion and talent components.
In two decades, the Carnival Calabar has evolved, incorporating new themes at every year's celebration. Today, it pride itself as one of the innovative institutions as well as an iconic global tourism brand ,ranking top fifth in the World.
More so, the Carnival's success is a testament to the visionary leadership of all former Governors of the State- Donald Duke, Liyel Imoke, Ben Ayade and now Bassey Otu who have supported and enhanced the event with continuous expansion in content and trending innovations.
Indeed the Carnival has gained international recognition, attracting visitors from around the world to Calabar, showcasing Nigeria's cultural richness globally with over two billion television viewership annually.
These milestones celebrate the Carnival's enduring impact on Nigerian culture , economy and society paving the way for continued growth and innovative expansion.
As we conclude the 2025 Calabar Festival and Carnival programmes, we extend our profound gratitude to all visitors for making this year's showpiece a remarkable one. It can only get better in 2026.Happy New Year Nigerians
This News Commentary is Compiled by the Ministry of Information, Cross River State.
