Calabar – The Governor of Cross River State, Prince Bassey Otu, has assured foreign nationals of the state’s solid security arrangements in preparation for the upcoming 2023 Carnival Calabar. He expressed this commitment during the official commencement of the first Carnival dry run, which took place at the Millennium Park in Calabar, the state’s capital.
Governor Otu, who was represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, confidently stated that the 2023 Carnival Calabar will surpass all previous Carnivals in the nation’s history.
“We are going to have the best Carnival that this country has ever seen this year,” he proclaimed. “We are ready, and all the service commanders are here. What that means is that we are ready.”
He went on to extend a warm invitation to friends from around the world: “So, we are sending a message to our friends out there in America, London, Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago, that their security is safe in Cross River. We are ready and very prepared to host you. This year’s Carnival will be the best in the world.”
Gabe Onah, Chairman of the State Carnival Commission, shared that the cultural environment that transformed Cross River in the early 2000s and reshaped Nigeria’s landscape is making a comeback.
Onah further noted the improvements in Calabar, highlighting cleaner streets and the reappearance of the city’s lights. The Carnival featured various participating bands, including Masta Blasta, Seagulls, Bayside, Calas Vegas, Passion 4, and Diamond, who marched through the 12-kilometer Carnival routes on Sunday.
Effiong Ekpenyong, the Special Adviser for Events Management, revealed that the Calabar Carnival has introduced a raffle draw, with the chance for a lucky winner to drive away with a brand new car.
