Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has flagged off the Carnival Calabar dry run, marking another step in preparations for the annual festival.
Key Highlights
- Governor Otu, represented by Deputy Governor Peter Odey, flags off the Carnival Calabar dry run.
- This year’s theme is “Rethinking Our Collective Destiny.”
- Last year’s carnival had an estimated socio-economic impact of ₦19 billion.
- Online registration and voting for Band of the Year introduced.
- Davido has indicated readiness to perform, says the Carnival Commission.
Represented at the event on Sunday by the Deputy Governor, Peter Odey, he said the festival remains one of the state’s major cultural and tourism events.
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Cross River State Carnival Commission, Gab Onah, said the state government is poised to position Carnival Calabar not merely as an annual celebration, but as a stronger economic asset capable of attracting visitors, supporting businesses and showcasing the state’s cultural heritage to national and international audiences.
‘Rethinking Our Collective Destiny’
Onah added that this year’s carnival is anchored on the theme: “Rethinking Our Collective Destiny,” which he described as a call for unity, equality and renewed commitment to the shared humanity of all people.
The chairman explained that the theme reflects Governor Otu’s vision of promoting peace, love and inclusiveness through culture, stressing that the carnival should serve not only as a celebration but also as a platform for young people to showcase their creativity and talent.
According to him, the 2026 edition seeks to reinforce the message that humanity’s common interests must take precedence, stressing that beyond its cultural significance, the festival must deliver greater economic value to Cross River State through increased tourism receipts, business opportunities and wider participation.
Beyond ₦19bn Impact
He disclosed that the socio-economic impact of last year’s carnival was estimated at ₦19 billion and that the commission was exploring ways to surpass that figure by strengthening the festival’s economic ecosystem.
Onah identified digitalisation as a major strategy for achieving this objective, revealing that the commission had introduced online registration and voting to give spectators a more active role in the carnival.
Under the initiative, members of the public would be able to register as band members and participate in voting for the Band of the Year, a development he said would expand engagement beyond the traditional experience of watching carnival performances.
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Davido Set to Join Festivities
On the entertainment front, Onah disclosed that Nigerian music star Davido has indicated his readiness to participate in this year’s festivities, while discussions with some international participants were still ongoing.
He also noted that the number of revellers expected to participate in the carnival typically varied according to the strength and preparedness of the competing bands, adding that the first dry run was an opportunity to assess readiness ahead of the main event.
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