Bassey Otu Calabar Carnival revival marks a bold push to grow culture, tourism, and creative economy in Cross River State
Bassey Otu Calabar Carnival has taken centre stage again as Cross River State’s Governor Bassey Otu launched the 2025 dry run, signalling a vibrant return for Africa’s biggest street festival and a renewed drive to power the state’s economy through culture and creativity.
Held on Sunday at Millennium Park in Calabar, the dry run marked the 20th anniversary of the celebrated carnival, a cultural spectacle that has grown from a modest local parade into a global tourism brand.
This year’s edition, themed “Traces of Time,” captures two decades of evolution, endurance, and innovation.
Governor Otu described the Calabar Carnival as a living symbol of reconciliation, unity, and artistic energy, saying the 2025 celebration is not just about pageantry but about rebuilding an economy rooted in creativity.
“We are not only celebrating unity, but also 20 years of cultural innovation that continues to place Calabar on the global map,” he said with optimism.
The Bassey Otu Calabar Carnival dry run set the tone for what the administration calls a “Season of Sweetness” — an era of inclusive tourism and investment in the arts.
Officials say this year’s edition will emphasise creative entrepreneurship, connecting local artisans, designers, and performers with export-ready opportunities across fashion, film, and digital content.
Launched in 2004 to diversify Cross River’s economy beyond oil dependency, the Calabar Carnival has since become an industry of its own, employing thousands of craftsmen, choreographers, and hospitality workers.
Governor Otu’s government is now courting private sponsors and development partners to modernise the festival’s infrastructure, expand its digital footprint, and attract international collaboration.
Industry analysts say the festival represents a strategic platform to formalise Nigeria’s $6 billion creative economy, much of which remains untapped.
“The Calabar Carnival is not just entertainment — it’s enterprise,” said one observer. “If properly harnessed, it could redefine Nigeria’s global creative image.”
In his closing remarks, Governor Otu reaffirmed his commitment to culture as an engine of growth. “The Season of Sweetness is not just about governance,” he declared.
“It is about joy, culture, and unity. We want the world to see that creativity is the foundation of prosperity.”
As the Bassey Otu Calabar Carnival gears up for December, excitement is building across the state and beyond.
For Cross River, the 2025 edition promises not only a spectacular showcase of colour and rhythm but also a powerful statement that culture remains central to its economic revival and global identity.
Business3 years ago
