Senator Bassey Otu, the Governor of Cross River State, has boldly proclaimed that the upcoming 2023 Carnival Calabar is poised to be the most extraordinary carnival the world has ever witnessed.
Assuring the public, Otu emphasized the intact state security architecture, ensuring a safe and grand celebration during the 32-day event.
According to converseer.com, the Governor conveyed this confidence while officially launching the First Carnival Dry Run at the Millennium Park (Eleven-Eleven) in Calabar, the state capital, on Sunday, October 15, 2023. Represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, the Governor declared that the forthcoming Carnival Calabar would outshine every carnival in the history of Nigeria.
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“We are going to have the best Carnival that this country has ever seen this year. We are ready, and all the service commanders are here, and what that means is that we are ready,” stated Governor Otu.
Sending a global invitation, he assured international friends from America, London, Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago that Cross River is a haven of security, prepared to host and welcome visitors for what he confidently declared as the “best carnival in the world.”
Earlier in the event, Mr. Gabe Onah, the Chairman of the State Carnival Commission, emphasized the return of the cultural milieu that transformed Cross River at the turn of the millennium. He highlighted the changing landscape of Nigeria, with the city lights of Calabar making a comeback and the streets becoming cleaner.
The Carnival Dry Run featured vibrant participation from renowned bands, including Masta Blasta, Seagulls, Bayside, Calas Vegas, Passion 4, and Diamond, showcasing the rich cultural diversity of the region. Additionally, Special Adviser Events Management, Effiong Ekpenyong, announced an exciting addition to the Carnival Calabar – a raffle draw where the lucky winner will drive home a brand-new car.
As the excitement builds and preparations reach a crescendo, Cross River State is gearing up to redefine the standards of global carnivals with the much-anticipated 2023 Carnival Calabar.
