The 2024 Calabar Carnival brought vibrant cultural displays and international recognition as dignitaries from Nigeria and abroad gathered in Cross River State for the event.
The carnival, themed “Our Shared Prosperity,” took place on Saturday at Millennium Park, Calabar, and saw the attendance of Hajia Aisha Buhari, the wife of Nigeria’s former President, along with her children. Governors AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq of Kwara State and Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State were also present, alongside former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke and other prominent figures, including Senator John Owan Enoh and Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong.
The carnival welcomed diplomats from the United Nations, the European Union, and other international organizations, further cementing its global appeal. Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Cross River State Governor Prince Bassey Otu highlighted the significance of the carnival’s theme.
“This year’s theme, ‘Our Shared Prosperity,’ is internationally engaging because we have a global audience right here. We must build economic, social, and cultural prosperity for everyone to share,” Governor Otu said.
He expressed gratitude to the event’s initiators, including former governors Donald Duke, Liyel Imoke, and Ben Ayade, for sustaining the carnival since its inception in 2004. Otu also hinted at plans to introduce a Diaspora band in future editions to further expand the carnival’s reach.
Kwara State Governor AbdulRasaq praised the carnival for its creativity and economic impact, noting its ability to put Nigeria on the global map.
“This event is more than just a cultural celebration; it boosts the state’s internally generated revenue. People now talk about spending December in Lagos, but Calabar is here to stay. Hopefully, next year, people will spend some days here before heading back to Lagos,” AbdulRasaq said.
Governor Ododo of Kogi State commended the energy and dedication shown by the participants and the leadership of Governor Otu, which he said reflected the event’s success.
The Chairman of the Carnival Commission, Mr. Gab Onah, acknowledged the sponsors of this year’s carnival, including Afrexim Bank, MTN, Zenith Bank, Arise, International Energy Insurance Company, DSTV, and First Bank. Their support contributed to the carnival’s grandeur and success.
The Calabar Carnival, now in its second decade, continues to celebrate Nigerian culture while promoting tourism and fostering economic growth. Governor Otu assured attendees of his administration’s commitment to sustaining and enhancing the event in the years to come.
“This is more than just a carnival; it’s a platform to showcase our rich heritage and build connections that benefit our people and the world,” he said.
