The Cross River State Carnival Commission is strengthening its partnership with security agencies to ensure safety during the upcoming carnival rehearsals and events.
The Cross River State Carnival Commission has announced an expanded partnership with various security agencies to bolster safety during the upcoming carnival rehearsals.
This initiative aims to create a secure environment for both participants and spectators as preparations for the highly anticipated event intensify.
In an interview with Voice of Nigeria in Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, the commission’s executive secretary, Mr. Austin Cobham, shared details about the collaborative efforts with key security and service agencies, including the Federal Fire Service and the Cross River Transport Regulatory Agency.
This collaboration specifically focuses on enhancing safety along the 12-kilometer carnival route.
Mr. Cobham emphasized the importance of continuously assessing and implementing new safety measures to improve the carnival experience for tourists, guests, revelers, and spectators.
He noted, “Over the years, we have always focused on having a robust, flamboyant and spectacular event. But, with this dry run, we witnessed something different in that we amplified our safety measures.”
For the first time, fire fighters were deployed along the carnival route, highlighting the commission’s commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property during the event. Cobham explained that they considered every possible precaution to protect participants and attendees.
Addressing Past Challenges
Following a recent evaluation of past carnival events, the commission identified several areas for improvement that could have been addressed through stronger collaboration with relevant organizations. Cobham stated, “We have deployed every uniformed organization in Cross River State to beef up security for the carnival.”
The commission is also working closely with the Cross River Transport Regulatory Agency (CTRA) to manage commercial transportation during the carnival.
By implementing internal measures, the CTRA aims to enhance compliance among commercial drivers who might disrupt the carnival route.
Cobham noted that the biggest challenge has been controlling commercial transport operators attempting to cut through the carnival float area, and this collaboration aims to reduce confrontations and frictions.
New Features for the Carnival
Cobham also announced that the concert introduced last year during the dry runs will continue as a permanent feature of the 2024 Carnival Calabar, themed “Our Shared Experience.” This pre-festival concert, set to be held at the Millennium Park, will offer revelers and spectators an opportunity to gather for an all-night celebration following the dry run.
He revealed that over 3,500 revelers participated in the first carnival dry run, and subsequent rehearsals are expected to attract an even larger number of participants from each band.
With the carnival season approaching, the Cross River State Carnival Commission is committed to providing a safe and memorable experience for everyone involved.
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