Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu has flagged off the 20th Carnival Calabar 1st Dry Run in an exhilarating and celebratory atmosphere in the ancient city of Calabar. The event signalled official preparation for the main Carnival in December.
Representing the Governor, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, restated that the 2024 carnival theme “Our Shared Prosperity,” will be the biggest and best yet.
He also extended invitations to visitors and tourists from around the world to join the 20th-anniversary celebration of Africa’s biggest street party (Carnival Calabar and Festival) on 32 days of pomp, pageantry, and mirthfulness in December.
The dry run was attended by prominent figures such as Mrs Onari Duke, the former Governor’s wife, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Peter Okpara, and leaders of the seven competing carnival bands. Mr Effiong Ekpeyong, the Chairman of the Festival Committee, and Mr Austin Cobham, the Executive Secretary of the State Carnival Commission, were also present.
Mr Gab Onah, the chairman of the State Carnival Commission, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming carnival and assured that all preparations have been made to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.
The event was characterised by lively and enthusiastic vibes, signalling the start of another fantastic carnival season in Calabar.
Thousands of carnival enthusiasts from the competing bands and non-competing groups danced and paraded along the 12km carnival routes in the state capital.
View Timetable of the 2024 Carnival Calabar HERE.