On Sunday in Calabar, the Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu officially began the first dry-run for the 2025 Carnival Calabar. The event took place at Millennium Park, where he greeted guests and explained how special this year will be. Governor Otu said he felt deep joy and hope about what is ahead.
He said this edition is about bringing people together, reviving culture, and showing off creativity. He noted that this year marks the 20th anniversary of the carnival.
He invited visitors from all over the world to come and take part in the festival in Calabar. He promised that the carnival would be full of color, music, dance, and culture. The governor said this is a time when everyone can enjoy, learn, and celebrate heritage.
This year’s theme is “Traces of Time.” Through that theme, the organizers hope people will see how culture and art have grown over time. Governor Otu urged every band leader, artist, and participant to make this anniversary edition unforgettable.
He also thanked those who have kept the carnival alive through many years. At the ceremony, many important people came. Members of the National Assembly, leaders from other states, traditional rulers, business leaders, and people from the diaspora were all present.
They wore bright clothing and joined in the excitement. The dry-run is a rehearsal that will test the parade routes and help ensure that the big celebrations in December will go smoothly.
It is the first step toward the full carnival, where competition among bands and cultural shows will happen across the city.
The governor closed by saying that the carnival is not just about entertainment, but also about unity, culture, and joy. He urged that no one should sit out, but join the fun and bring people together.
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