Calabar’s cultural calendar is set to witness a historic moment this December as the maiden full-scale edition of Bunyà Wà Efut (Efut Day 2025) brings together the city’s frontline traditional rulers in an unprecedented show of unity.
For years, Efut celebrations were modest and community-centered. But the 2025 edition, organizers say, is designed to project a strong message of cohesion, collaboration, and peace among the major ethnic groups in Calabar. The Muri Tata-Ribu I, Prime Minister of Efut Nation and Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, HRH High Chief Efeffiong Nta Eke, Ph.D, emphasised that this gathering is as much political as it is cultural.
“This festival is about positioning the Efut people not only in the traditional landscape but also within the political and social fabric of Cross River state,” he said. “It is a statement of unity among our people, and it is a testament to the collaboration that exists with our neighbouring tribes.”
Indeed, the event is expected to host the three traditional rulers of old Calabar: the Muri Munene of the Efuts, the Obóng of Calabar, and the Ndidem of the Quas. Their joint presence signals a renewed commitment to mutual respect, collaboration, and conflict resolution across ethnic lines.
Chief Charles Offiong Obo, Secretary of the Planning Committee, highlighted the festival’s historical significance: “Far and near, we are putting our heads together to build a formidable Efut people. But this is also about celebrating peaceful coexistence with our neighbours. The presence of the Obóng of Calabar and the Ndidem of the Quas shows that tradition and diplomacy can go hand in hand.”
The festival also reflect the evolving role of traditional institutions in modern governance. By uniting these leaders under a single cultural platform, organizers hope to reinforce the Efut’s visibility in the state’s political and social spheres, while promoting broader community cohesion in the ancient port city of Calabar.
High Chief Nta Eke described Bunyà Wà Efut 2025 as a historic benchmark: “It is going to be very impactful. It will stand the test of time, showing that under certain leadership, we were able to bring together our kings, our people, and our heritage in a way that fosters peace, progress, and unity.”
As Cross Riverians and tourists prepare to witness the festival, Bunyà Wà Efut promises more than dance, music, and cultural displays. It is a bold statement: unity in diversity remains a defining strength of Calabar, and tradition can coexist with modernity to shape a peaceful, cohesive society.
Bunyà Wà Efut (Efut Day) celebration which is billed to hold on Saturday, December 13 is the homage to the Efut King, The Muri Munene, Tribal King, Natural Ruler and Grand Patriarch of Efut Nation to intensify a collective ideology of the Efut people and heighten the unity, peace and love amongst the Efuts of Calabar.
