Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State on Monday, officially flagged off the dry run for the 20th Carnival Calabar in the state capital, marking the beginning of preparations for the main event in December.
There are seven competing carnival bands at the event.
Represented by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem, the governor said this year’s carnival theme, “Our Shared Prosperity,” promises to be the largest and most impressive yet.
He also invited visitors and tourists globally to partake in the 20th anniversary of Africa’s grandest street celebration, which he said will feature 30 days of festivities and excitement in December.
Among the people present at the event were former First Lady of the state, Mrs. Onari Duke, the state Commissioner of Police, Peter Okpara, Festival Committee Chairman, Mr. Effiong Ekpeyong, and Executive Secretary of the State Carnival Commission, Mr. Austin Cobham, among others.
Chairman of the State Carnival Commission, Mr. Gab Onah, shared his eagerness for the upcoming carnival and assured that all necessary arrangements are in place to guarantee a memorable experience for everyone.
The event radiated a lively and spirited atmosphere, heralding the start of another exciting carnival season in Calabar and witnessed thousands of carnival fans from both competing and non-competing bands participating in spirited dances and parading along the 12 km route in the state capital.
