The Cross River Government is set to restructure the annual Calabar Carnival after two decades of existence.
This was disclosed to reporters on February 23rd, 2025, during a press briefing by Nsa Gill, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary.
He said that the government of Gov. Bassey Otu had established a 13-member carnival review committee headed by Chief Edem Duke, a former Minister of Culture.
Gill said that the review committee had a 10-point terms of reference and that its report would be delivered within two weeks.
According to him, the review aims to improve the carnival’s standard and align it with global tourism product development and repackaging trends.
“The review is aimed at restructuring the carnival, which showcases one of the world’s finest displays of arts, culture, and tradition.
“The committee is also to review the past 20 years of the carnival to identify the high and low points.
“The committee is to identify the success factors of the last 20 years, restructure the bands as a creative entity, and explore organic ways of improving the carnival,” the statement read in parts.
The governor’s aide further said that the committee would advise the government on improving regulations and the event organisation to align with the world’s best practices.
“Another task of the committee is to harness marketing opportunities to improve funding and to give the event its deserved international visibility.
It should be noted that the Calabar Carnival was initiated in 2005 by the administration of Donald Duke, a former state governor.
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FAQ
- Why is the Cross River Government restructuring the Calabar Carnival after 20 years?
The Cross River Government aims to improve the standard of the Calabar Carnival and align it with global trends in tourism product development and repackaging. The restructuring is intended to enhance the carnival’s appeal and ensure it continues to showcase one of the world’s finest displays of arts, culture, and tradition.
- Who is leading the restructuring efforts for the Calabar Carnival?
The restructuring efforts are being led by a 13-member carnival review committee headed by Chief Edem Duke, a former Minister of Culture. The committee has been tasked with reviewing the carnival’s past 20 years and making recommendations for its improvement.
- What are the objectives of the carnival review committee?
The committee has a 10-point terms of reference, which include identifying the past 20 years’ highs and lows, restructuring the bands as a creative entity, exploring organic ways of improving the carnival, and advising the government on regulations and organisation to align with world best practices. The committee is also tasked with harnessing marketing opportunities to strengthen funding and give the event international visibility.
- When is the committee expected to deliver its report?
The committee is expected to deliver its report within two weeks of its establishment.
- What impact will the restructuring have on the future of the Calabar Carnival?
The restructuring is expected to enhance the overall experience of the Calabar Carnival by improving its organisation, aligning it with global tourism trends, and increasing its international visibility. These changes aim to ensure the carnival remains a premier cultural and tourism event in Nigeria and beyond.
