Follow Us on Google
From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar
The Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, says the annual Carnival Calabar festival is now part of the identity of the state.
Senator Otu, represented by his deputy Peter Odey, made this known while flagging off the second dry run in preparation for the festival.
The governor, who also unveiled the official mascot and introduced a new Diasporan Band for the festival, described the moment as “another iconic chapter” in the state’s two-decade journey of building a world-class cultural and tourism brand.
“This design symbolises the pride and identity of the Cross River people.
“Africa’s biggest street party, Carnival Calabar, has become part of our identity, part of our history, and will stay with us for the rest of our lives.”
Other News
He stated that the celebration which is guided by this year’s carnival theme, “Traces of Time,” explores the historical and cultural journey of the Cross River people.
Speaking of the Diasporan Band, Gabriel Onah, Chairman of the State Carnival Commission, said, “We are unveiling the Carnival Calabar Diasporan Band with their unique theme that ties directly to ‘Traces of Time.’
“They are speaking to the pains of history and the desire to reconcile.
“I call on all Diasporans around the world — including myself — to join the Diasporan Band and help chart a new direction for Carnival Calabar,” he said.
