The 2025 edition of the prestigious Calabar Cultural Carnival has officially commenced, drawing a massive and vibrant crowd to the streets of Calabar. The event, which kicked off on Friday, saw an impressive turnout from across Nigeria and beyond, reinforcing the city's reputation as the nation's carnival capital.
A Grand Parade of States and Communities
Twenty-two out of the thirty states that initially expressed interest in participating were present at the grand parade. They were joined by all eighteen Local Government Areas of Cross River State, six host communities from within Calabar, and a newly introduced Diaspora Band. This convergence transformed the city into a melting pot of colors, music, and dance, attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators, including tourists, culture enthusiasts, and fun seekers.
The festival was officially flagged off at the Millennium Park Roundabout. Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, emphasized the event's significance. Represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, the Governor stated that the carnival offers a unique platform to display the rich cultural heritage of both the state and Nigeria.
"You will see culture in clear display," Governor Otu said through his deputy. "You will see the culture of the people of Cross River, you will see various cultural groups that would come across the country to showcase what we are known for. Calabar Carnival will again be in the eyes of the world as we showcase the best cultural carnival in the world. We are the first to start the cultural carnival and every year we up the game."
Roots in Heritage and International Recognition
Prior to the governor's address, the Chairman of the Cross River Carnival Commission, Mr. Gabe Onah, provided deeper insight into the carnival's foundations. He explained that the event is deeply rooted in the culture and heritage of the state's people.
Onah noted that the African identity is powerfully expressed through the carnival's dance and street performances. He also revealed that the European Union continues to identify with and promote Carnival Calabar through initiatives like the 'Sticks Arts' programme.
Adding a philosophical touch, Onah remarked, "In African arts and culture, everything is prominent, caused by the sun, and this is what the sun has offered us here today, blessing this cultural effort."
Wide-Ranging Participation Across Nigeria
The participating states showcased the national appeal of the carnival. The list of states in attendance included:
- Abia
- Adamawa
- Bayelsa
- Benue
- Delta
- Edo
- Ebonyi
- Katsina
- Kebbi
- Kogi
- Nasarawa
- Niger
- Ondo
- Osun
- Rivers
- Taraba
The successful and colorful opening day sets a high standard for the rest of the carnival, promising days filled with more cultural exhibitions, entertainment, and economic activity for Calabar and Cross River State.
