The Cross River State Carnival Commission set to present a colourful show for the highly anticipated 2023 Carnival Calabar.
Amidst an air of excitement and innovation, Chairman Mr. Gabe Onah revealed the Commission’s ambitious plans during a meeting with the newly appointed members of the Commission in Calabar.
According to thebeaglenewsonline.com, the announcement came just a week after Governor Senator Bassey Otu unveiled the carnival’s theme for the year, “Season of Sweetness,” during the annual Akwaaba event in Lagos. This theme promised an array of sweet surprises and a celebration that would linger in the hearts and minds of all attendees.
Mr. Onah, brimming with enthusiasm, assured Cross Riverians and Nigerians alike that this year’s carnival would be an exceptional showpiece.
He stated, “We desire that Cross Riverians and indeed Nigerians get ready for the fireworks that they are known to offer to the world.”
With the “Season of Sweetness” theme and a collaboration with the Brazilian Embassy, the Commission vowed to enhance every aspect of the carnival, from costume design to wire bending and the magnificent floats that graced the streets. The goal was nothing short of perfection.
“I am particularly pleased because the calibre of persons around me offers so much for the future given their past endeavors, and we are hopeful that nothing but the best planning and execution will come out of these capable individuals,” Onah emphasized.
The Chairman’s optimism was well-founded. Governor Senator Bassey Otu had not only reintroduced key components of the carnival, such as the children’s carnival, the night of the Kings and Queens, and the boat regatta, but had also undertaken a holistic review to ensure a grander and more colorful event than ever before.
To reposition the Commission, Chairman Onah revealed a strategy to attract more sponsors and elevate the visibility of their goods and services. Sponsors were promised an unforgettable experience, and the Commission was determined to deliver.
“I’m elated to welcome the firebrand new members of the Commission and the Executive Secretary to the new-look Carnival Commission. Mine is to say, we are not going to leave any stone unturned to bring Cross River back to the world,” Onah added.
Hon. Robert Abubarkar Ewa, the Commissioner for Tourism, Art, and Culture, added to the excitement, stating, “I can assure you that this year’s Carnival Calabar will be different because we are bringing in new ideas, innovations, and we are going to do our best by using our superior contacts to scout for sponsorship.”
Executive Secretary Evangelist Austin Cobham emphasized their commitment to delivering a spectacular show, with the reintroduction of the essay competition to sustain the academic component of the carnival. He also assured attendees that the deplorable state of internal roads, especially on the carnival route, would be addressed to ensure a smooth and visually stunning experience.
As the Head of Media, Ms. Grace-Ann Nku, explained, the Commission had introduced a public-private partnership model to welcome sponsorship opportunities. They were in consultations with Nollywood and the United Nations, with high hopes of attracting even more sponsors.
With their unique approach, Carnival Calabar 2023 promised to be a spectacle of unmatched proportions, leaving a humongous and lasting impact on all who joined in the festivities. The world eagerly awaited the “Season of Sweetness,” and the multiplying effect of this grand event would undoubtedly touch the lives of ordinary people on the streets of Calabar and beyond.
