The Department of Event Management has become a strategic driver of the Governor Bassey Otu administration's vision of projecting Cross River State as Nigeria's foremost destination for culture, tourism, entertainment, and public engagement. The department works hand in hand with the Carnival Calabar and Festival Committee, literally like Siamese twins, to deliver memorable experiences that promote the state's identity and strengthen its economy.
Speaking on the remarkable transformation, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Event Management and Chairman of the Carnival Calabar and Festival Committee, Mr. Effiong Ekpenyong, recalls the realities they met upon assumption of office in 2023.
"When we came on board, it was quite challenging. Many things were not working as they should. Virtually all festival activities had been compressed into a single week known as Power Week, with Carnival Calabar serving as the only major highlight."
He explained that shortly after assuming office, Governor Bassey Otu convened a strategic meeting with the team and gave a clear directive that has since become the foundation of the administration's event management philosophy.
"The Governor mandated us to spread sweetness across every sector of governance in line with his 'People First' mantra. He gave us a marching order that he wanted to see something entirely different. His words were simple but profound: 'It's either premium or nothing.'"
That vision has inspired a complete rethinking of how events are conceptualized and executed across Cross River State, resulting in higher standards, greater innovation, broader stakeholder participation, and a revitalized calendar of tourism, cultural, and government events.
