From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
Despite torrential rainfall in Calabar, the Cross River State capital, the state government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding the economic benefits of Carnival Calabar, with plans to deepen digital participation, attract more visitors and increase tourism revenue as the first dry run of the 2026 edition got underway.
Governor Bassey Edet Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, officially flagged off the dry run, marking another milestone in preparations for the annual festival, which remains one of Cross River State’s major cultural and tourism events.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Cross River State Carnival Commission, Gab Onah, said this year’s carnival was anchored on the theme, “Rethinking Our Collective Destiny,” which he described as a call for unity, equality and a renewed commitment to the shared humanity of all people.
Onah explained that the theme reflected Governor Otu’s vision of promoting peace, love and inclusiveness through culture. He stressed that the carnival should serve not only as a celebration but also as a platform for young people to showcase their creativity and talents.
He noted that previous editions had explored themes centred on peace and love, shared prosperity and the historical journey of the carnival, particularly during its 20th anniversary.
According to him, the 2026 edition seeks to reinforce the message that humanity’s common interests must take precedence over divisions.
Beyond its cultural significance, Onah said the festival must deliver greater economic value to Cross River State through increased tourism revenue, expanded business opportunities and wider public participation.
He disclosed that the socioeconomic impact of the previous year’s carnival was estimated at ₦19 billion, adding that the commission was exploring strategies to surpass that figure by strengthening the festival’s economic ecosystem.
Onah identified digitalisation as a major strategy for achieving this objective, revealing that the commission had introduced online registration and voting to give spectators a more active role in the carnival.
Under the initiative, members of the public would be able to register as band members and participate in voting for the Band of the Year.
He said the development would expand public engagement beyond the traditional experience of watching carnival performances.
He explained that the digital approach was designed to transform spectators into active participants while creating new opportunities to connect the carnival with a wider audience.
On the entertainment front, Onah disclosed that Nigerian music star Davido had indicated his readiness to participate in this year’s festivities, while discussions with some international participants were still ongoing.
He also noted that the number of revellers expected to participate in the carnival would depend largely on the strength and preparedness of the competing bands.
He added that the first dry run provided an opportunity to assess their readiness ahead of the main event.
The carnival commission chairman expressed optimism about the festival’s prospects, describing it as a cultural platform capable of promoting unity while strengthening the state’s tourism economy.
With these preparations, the Cross River State Government is seeking to position Carnival Calabar not merely as an annual celebration but as a stronger economic asset capable of attracting visitors, supporting businesses and showcasing the state’s cultural heritage to national and international audiences.
