Nelson NseAbasi
The 20th edition of Carnival Calabar and Festival is currently enjoying massive positive reviews and ratings globally. The reviews and analysis by spectators, journalists, and tourism stakeholders has given a boost to the trust in the state governor, Prince Bassey Otu,his team, and the Carnival Calabar brand.
The Cross River state government had lined up different activities each day since the festival started on December 1, 2025. The Sir Gabe Onah-led Cross River Carnival Commission burnt the midnight oil to ensure a historic and hitch-free 20th edition float.
The Cultural Carnival, held on December 26, witnessed massive participation by all 18 local government areas of the state. They showcased their traditions and culture. Adults and children dressed in their local costumes to showcase their identity.
Thousands of visitors and tourists trooped to Millennium Park Roundabout to watch performers from the 18 local governments display their different traditional dressing patterns, food, arts and crafts, music, dances, lifestyle exhibitions, and historical storytelling.
The local government areas that participated in the cultural festival were Abi, Akamkpa, Akpabuyo, Bakassi, Bekwarra, Biase, Boki, Calabar Municipality, Calabar South, Etung, Ikom, Obanliku, Obubra, Obudu, Odukpani, Ogoja, Yakurr, and Yala. Some Nigerian states later displayed their rich cultural heritage to add color to the event.
The Junior Carnival, which took place on December 27, was a beauty to behold as little children dressed in colorful attire from Bayside Band, Freedom Band, Diamond Band, Masta Blasta Band, Seagull Band, Calas Vegas Band, and Passion Band, choreographed this year's theme, 'Traces of Time,' through their performances.
Apart from telling stories about culture, food, and dances, they also highlighted the environment, especially the impact of climate change, education, and Nigeria's independence. Their brilliant displays were applauded by thousands who watched their performances.
On Sunday, December 28, Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, flagged off the Bikers Carnival as part of the programs to mark the 20th edition of Carnival Calabar. Governor Otu, represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, promised to continue to sustain Carnival Calabar.
Bikers from Diamond Bike Gang, Tinapa Mc, Maxk Riders, Metallic Knight, Invincible Mc, D' Scorpion MRC, Free Wheelers, and D'Avia Tors, who were properly kitted, entertained the crowd with their skills.
Governor Otu, who rode in a red sports car driven by his son, arrived at the spectators' stand in the evening to watch bikers display their skills. He thanked sponsors like ARISE, UBA, First Bank, MTN, and others for supporting the annual festival.
The 2025 Carnival Calabar took off on a grandiose and colorful note as Governor Otu, on Monday, December 29, flagged it off. Otu, who arrived with his wife, Eyoanwan Otu, paid tributes to his predecessors, namely, His Excelencies Mr Donald Duke, Senator Liyel Imoke, and Prof. Ben Ayade, for founding and ensuring the sustainability of Carnival Calabar during their different administrations.
He also expressed gratitude to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, who came with their spouses, members of the diplomatic community, the 10-man ECOWAS Commission, and various sponsors for being part of the festival and sharing in the joy of the 20th anniversary.
Notably, Portuguese Ambassador to Nigeria, Paulo Martins Santos, who was present at the flag-off, commended the Cross River State Governor, Otu, for investing in Carnival Calabar, even as he pledged to bring other ambassadors from Abuja to the 2026 edition.
In the highly competitive Carnival Calabar, Edem Duke-owned Calas Vegas Band was crowned champion for the third time in a row. Senator Ita Giwa's Seagull Band closely followed in 2nd position with 2,203.9 points, putting up a stiff challenge. Passion 4 Band came 3rd, Freedom Band came fourth, Masta Blasta maintained fifth position, while Diamond Band and Bay Side Band came sixth and seventh positions, respectively.
In the Cultural Carnival State category, Rivers State claimed the top prize, impressing judges and spectators with its rich cultural display and choreography. At the local government level, Calabar South emerged victorious in the Cultural Carnival LGA category, earning accolades for its creativity and strong representation of local heritage.
The Children's Carnival segment saw Freedom Band take the crown, standing out for its colorful presentation and engaging performance that highlighted the growing role of young participants in sustaining the carnival's legacy.
Performances by Iyanya, Shalipoppi, Tiwa Savage, and Timaya crowned the festivities.
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