Cross River targets over N19bn from the 2026 Calabar Carnival as the state moves to boost tourism, investment and economic activity

The Cross River State Government has set its sights on generating more than N19 billion in socio-economic benefits from the 2026 Calabar Carnival as it moves to strengthen the festival’s role as a major economic and tourism asset.

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Governor Bassey Otu disclosed the target on Sunday during the flag-off of the first dry run for this year’s carnival in Calabar.

Otu, who was represented by his deputy, Peter Odey, said the state was repositioning the annual festival to attract more tourists, support local businesses, stimulate investment and promote Cross River’s cultural heritage to audiences within and outside Nigeria.

The governor said the carnival remained an important platform for showcasing the state’s creative and tourism potential while creating opportunities for businesses and residents to benefit from increased economic activity.

The Chairman of the Cross River State Carnival Commission, Gab Onah, said the 2025 edition generated an estimated N19 billion in socio-economic impact.

Onah said the commission was working on strategies to surpass that figure with the 2026 edition.

One of the measures being introduced is greater digitisation of the carnival process.

According to him, the commission has introduced online registration and voting to increase public participation and make it easier for people to become involved in the festival.

Members of the public will be able to register as carnival band members and participate in voting for the Band of the Year.

The move is expected to broaden engagement with the festival while giving participants a more direct role in some aspects of the competition.

Onah also disclosed that Nigerian music star Davido had indicated his readiness to participate in this year’s festivities.

He added that discussions were ongoing with some international participants as the organisers work to make the 2026 edition more expansive.

The participation of prominent entertainers and international guests is expected to add further visibility to the carnival and potentially increase visitor traffic during the festivities.

The 2026 Calabar Carnival is themed “Rethinking Our Collective Destiny.”

Onah said the theme was designed to promote unity, inclusiveness and shared humanity.

He added that the festival would provide young people with a platform to display their creativity and talents while helping to generate greater economic opportunities for Cross River State.

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With the government targeting more than N19 billion in benefits, the 2026 edition is being positioned not only as a cultural celebration but also as a significant driver of tourism, commerce and investment in the state.