Lagos –Freedom Carnival Band emerged as one of the biggest winners at the Carnival Calabar 2026 theme unveiling and awards ceremony held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, clinching four major awards in recognition of its performance at the 2025 edition of Africa’s biggest street party NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
The awards were presented during the official unveiling of the 2026 Carnival Calabar theme, “Rethinking Our Collective Destiny,” an event that marked the commencement of preparations for the 21st edition of the annual cultural festival. The ceremony attracted government officials, diplomats, tourism stakeholders, corporate sponsors and carnival enthusiasts from across the country.
Freedom Carnival Band dominated the Junior Category, winning the awards for Best Theme Interpretation, Best Overall Band, Best Carnival Costumes and Best Reflection of Carnival Spirit.
The multiple awards followed what organisers described as the band’s outstanding presentation during the 2025 Carnival Calabar, where its performance was widely praised for its creativity, energy and artistic storytelling.
Industry stakeholders said the latest recognition reflects the band’s growing influence within the carnival industry and its commitment to innovation and excellence in performance.
The band’s recent successes have been linked to the leadership of its Band Leader, Ntufam Ekanem Ekpenyong, whose efforts have helped position Freedom Carnival Band among the leading groups in the annual carnival competition.
Reacting to the awards, the Director and Writer of the band, Austine LordLaz, expressed appreciation to members of the team and dedicated the honours to the children, parents, instructors, designers and support crew who contributed to the band’s success.
“These awards belong to every child, parent, instructor, designer and team member who poured their hearts into this journey. Their passion, sacrifice and commitment made this success possible,” he said.
LordLaz also disclosed that preparations had already commenced for the 2026 carnival, promising a more ambitious and memorable outing.
According to him, the band is working on a presentation that would challenge perspectives, inspire audiences and further raise the bar for creative excellence at the festival.
“With these achievements behind us, our focus now shifts to 2026. We are preparing something truly unforgettable, an experience that will challenge perspectives, inspire audiences and redefine expectations,” he added.
The Carnival Calabar Commission recently unveiled “Rethinking Our Collective Destiny” as the theme for the 2026 edition of the festival, with Governor Bassey Otu describing the carnival as a platform for cultural expression, economic growth and social cohesion.
As preparations intensify for the 2026 carnival, Freedom Carnival Band’s latest achievement is expected to strengthen its position as one of the leading contenders in the competition while reinforcing its reputation for artistic excellence and innovation.
