Carnival Calabar 2024: A Celebration of Unity and Prosperity

The city of Calabar, Cross River State, was

abuzz with excitement as dignitaries from across Nigeria and the globe gathered for the 2024 Carnival Calabar. The event, themed "Our Shared Prosperity," was attended by the wife of the immediate past president of Nigeria, Hajia Aisha Buhari, and her children, as well as the governors of Kwara and Kogi, AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq and Ahmed Usman Ododo.

In his address at the flag-off ceremony, Cross River State Governor Prince Bassey Otu emphasized the international significance of the event, stating that "our shared prosperity is actually internationally engaging because we have the global audience right here; we have people from all continents of the world right here".

The governor also praised the initiators of Carnival Calabar, including former Governor Donald Duke, who launched the event in 2004. He assured that his administration would continue to build and add value to the event, with plans to introduce a Diaspora band in the coming year.

Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq lauded the present administration for sustaining and adding creativity to the event, noting that it puts Nigeria on the map as a global event and improves the state's internally generated revenue. The governor of Kogi State also praised Governor Otu's leadership, evident in the energy and commitment displayed by participants and residents.

The carnival, which is in its second decade, featured competing and non-competing bands, who entertained watchers along the 12-kilometer carnival route while interpreting the theme at various adjudication points.

The Chairman of the Carnival Commission, Mr. Gab Onah, acknowledged the contributions of sponsors, including Afrexim Bank, MTN, Zenith Bank, Arise, International Energy Insurance Company, DSTV, and First Bank, among others.

As Calabar continues to establish itself as a hub for tourism and cultural celebration, the Carnival Calabar remains a testament to the city's vibrant spirit and commitment to unity and prosperity.