By Frank Ulom
The Leader of Tinkoriko Calabar Heritage, Rt. Hon. (Chief) Orok Otu Duke, PhD, has promised a bigger and more distinctive Tinkoriko celebration in 2027, with the event expected to further showcase the culture and identity of the people of Calabar.
Duke gave the assurance in a recent statement, saying the 2027 celebration would offer participants and visitors an experience that reflects the history, creativity and communal spirit of Calabar and Cross River State.
He said Tinkoriko had grown beyond a mere cultural gathering, describing it as an avenue for people of different ages and communities to come together, interact and celebrate their shared heritage.
According to him, the celebration also provides an important opportunity to preserve indigenous traditions and ensure that younger generations remain connected to the values and history of their people.
“Tinkoriko is about who we are as a people. It is about our history, our culture, our unity and our shared values. This coming edition will remind everyone of the beauty and strength of Calabar heritage,” Duke said.
Tinkoriko is recognised as part of the official Calabar Carnival and Festival programme and serves as the closing celebration of the annual carnival season. It brings together cultural groups, youths, elders and communities through cultural displays and performances.
Duke said its inclusion in the official carnival programme had further strengthened the position of Tinkoriko among cultural stakeholders in the state.
He also linked the continued development of the celebration to the wider promotion of tourism and cultural development in Cross River State, noting that greater attention to indigenous heritage could help showcase the state to a wider audience.
As preparations for the 2027 edition take shape, Duke announced that Tinkoriko T shirts and other related paraphernalia would be made available to registered members between October and December 2026.
He said further details concerning the programme would be made available to the public at the appropriate time.
The announcement has added to expectations surrounding the next edition as cultural enthusiasts look forward to another celebration of Calabar’s heritage and traditions.