…lauds Duke, Imoke, Ayade

By Ike Uchechukwu, CALABAR
Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has described Carnival Calabar, popularly known as Africa’s biggest street party, as a symbol of 20 years of resilience, ingenuity, continuity and sustainability.

Governor Otu made the remark on Monday while flagging off the 20th edition of the carnival at the Millennium Park in Calabar, the state capital.

He praised former governor Donald Duke for conceiving the carnival, describing it as a visionary initiative that has grown into a major signature event and a cornerstone of the state’s tourism calendar. The governor also commended former governors Liyel Imoke and Ben Ayade for sustaining the carnival over the years.

According to him, the event has endured various challenges, including the COVID 19 pandemic, due to the commitment of successive administrations to preserve its cultural and economic relevance.

Governor Otu welcomed visitors from across the country and the diaspora, assuring them of the state’s hospitality and the government’s resolve to continue improving the carnival experience.

He described the 20th edition as a significant milestone, noting that it reflects two decades of creativity, growth and resilience in the state’s tourism sector.

The governor disclosed that this year’s carnival would feature vibrant artistic expressions, rhythmic dance performances and creative displays, urging participating bands to fully interpret the theme of the 2025 carnival, titled “Traces of Time.”

He explained that the theme captures the historical journey and cultural evolution of Cross River State, adding that performances should present the story in a way that will leave lasting impressions on local and international audiences.

Governor Otu expressed confidence that the anniversary edition would further enhance the global profile of Carnival Calabar and reinforce Cross River State’s position as a leading tourism destination.