Cross River Government declares December 27 and 31, 2024, work-free to encourage participation in the Carnival Calabar festivities.

The Cross River State Government has announced two key work-free days to encourage full participation in its flagship tourism event, the Carnival Calabar.

Civil and public servants are granted these days off on Friday, December 27, and Tuesday, December 31, 2024, as part of the state’s initiative to promote active involvement in the highly anticipated festival.

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The decision is in line with the state’s ongoing efforts to enhance the global appeal of Carnival Calabar, which has evolved into a significant cultural and tourism event in Nigeria.

The festivities are expected to draw a large crowd, both locally and internationally, with the government keen to ensure that citizens can actively engage in the celebrations.

Friday, December 27, will mark the Junior Carnival Parade, a vibrant and family-friendly prelude to the main festivities.

The following Tuesday, December 31, is also a special day, set to lead into the New Year celebrations. With January 1, 2025, already recognised as a federal public holiday, the government has declared December 31 a work-free day, providing public servants with ample time to enjoy the cultural festivities.

As part of the government’s efforts to maintain security and ensure a smooth flow of activities, restrictions on vehicular movement will be in place for the main Carnival Calabar event on Saturday, December 28. A 12-kilometre stretch of the Calabar metropolis will be closed to vehicles to allow for safe and uninterrupted procession along the carnival route. Motorists are encouraged to use alternative routes during this period.

In his seasonal message, Governor Otu extended heartfelt greetings to residents and visitors celebrating the yuletide in Cross River.

He wished everyone a joyous and prosperous New Year in 2025, reinforcing the government’s commitment to the preservation and promotion of the state’s rich cultural heritage.

The announcement of the work-free days and traffic management plans reflects the administration’s dedication to ensuring that both residents and visitors enjoy a memorable and safe holiday season, while actively engaging in the vibrant celebrations that make Carnival Calabar one of Nigeria’s premier cultural events.