Calabar Carnival Aims for Global Spotlight: Targets 15 Million Viewers and Fully Booked Hotels, Says Commissioner

The 20th edition of the Calabar Carnival is poised to captivate an expansive global audience of approximately 15 million viewers as it unfolds today, with the main event set to be broadcast live on DSTV. This grand cultural spectacle, as reported by Infostride News, has created a buzz of anticipation, evident in the complete booking of hotels in Calabar since Tuesday.

Erasmus Ekpang, Cross River’s Commissioner for Information, shared valuable insights into the resounding success of the carnival. He emphasized the overwhelming demand for accommodation, stating that only those who foresaw the influx of visitors and secured hotel bookings in advance are currently spared from the accommodation squeeze. In an interview, Ekpang conveyed the state’s enthusiasm, expressing confidence that the festivities will only get better.

“We are truly excited with what we have seen so far, and we know that it will only get better. As I speak with you, hotels in Calabar are fully booked such that visitors have to be sleeping in people’s houses. We had three visitors from Mali that are presently staying with a friend of mine because there is no hotel space. Only those visitors that booked their hotels in advance are smiling now,” he stated.

Ekpang also highlighted the pivotal role of sponsors in ensuring the success of the carnival, pointing out the collaborative efforts of banks and DSTV working in partnership with the state government. These strategic alliances have significantly contributed to the event’s prominence and scale, elevating it to the status of a major cultural milestone.

This year’s edition of the Calabar Carnival introduces novel dimensions, notably its expansion into the Northern and Central senatorial districts of the state. The initiative aims to foster a sense of inclusivity and belonging among residents in these previously untouched areas. Commissioner Ekpang revealed that the carnival has already traversed Ogoja in the North and Ikom in the Central, with additional highlights such as the reintroduction of the children’s segment on Wednesday.

The transformative impact of the carnival is not limited to the event itself; Calabar, as the host city, has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis in preparation for the festivities. Major roundabouts and roads have undergone extensive rehabilitation, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal and infrastructure of the city.

Commencing on December 1, the month-long carnival has seen widespread participation, with 15 states and two African countries taking part in Tuesday’s cultural events. The convergence of diverse cultures and the grandeur of the carnival underscore its significance as a celebrated annual event, drawing attention not only nationally but also globally.

As the carnival unfolds, its ripple effects extend beyond the immediate festivities, impacting the local economy through increased tourism and hospitality activities. The heightened demand for accommodation, as evidenced by the full booking of hotels, reflects the economic windfall for businesses in the hospitality sector. The influx of visitors from Mali, among other places, illustrates the international appeal and reach of the Calabar Carnival.

Furthermore, the expansion into previously underserved districts emphasizes the carnival’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. By reaching areas such as Ogoja and Ikom, the event becomes a unifying force, fostering a shared cultural experience that transcends geographical boundaries within the state.

The reintroduction of the children’s segment adds a family-friendly dimension to the carnival, catering to a diverse audience and ensuring that the cultural festivities are enjoyed by all age groups. This move aligns with the broader goal of promoting cultural heritage and traditions among the younger generation.

Calabar’s infrastructural facelift in preparation for the carnival is not only a testament to the city’s commitment to hosting a world-class event but also a strategic investment in long-term development. The improved roads and roundabouts contribute to the overall urban development of Calabar, creating a lasting legacy beyond the carnival period.

In conclusion, the 20th edition of the Calabar Carnival, covered extensively by Infostride News, emerges not just as a cultural extravaganza but as a dynamic catalyst for economic growth, community engagement, and infrastructural development. As the carnival continues to unfold, its impact resonates far beyond the streets of Calabar, reaching a global audience and solidifying its status as a premier cultural event in Nigeria and beyond.