AFTER the recent naming of a 13-person panel to evaluate and measure the influence of Nigeria’s largest urban festival, Carnival Calabar, by the Cross River State administration, the review committee convened at Diamond Hall, Metropolitan Hotel on Thursday.
The seven-day discussion aims to achieve Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu’s vision for enhancing and broadening the scope of the carnival as part of the socioeconomic progress in Cross River State.
In his keynote speech, High Chief Carolyn Ugbor, who serves as the chairman of the Review Committee, stated that the governor, with extensive experience across various administrative domains, recognizes the significance of the Carnival’s twentieth anniversary and understands the importance of establishing clear guidelines to ensure its longevity during challenging periods.
Chief Duke mentioned that the committee aims to assess the Carnival Calabar over the past twenty years and develop clear insights and concepts for maintaining its prominence and significance in the global cultural landscape, particularly within the diaspora community. The carnival genuinely embodies a rich tapestry of values inherent in Black culture.
"For us, the carnival represents the rebirth of these aspects: elements, traits, soft power, and cultural identity. It stands as a symbol of our creativity, resilience, and communal spirit. Additionally, it serves as a stage that highlights our profound diversity, driving economic progress and establishing Cross River State as the gem atop Nigeria’s crown," he elaborated.
At the event, the Chairman of the Carnival Commission, Sir Gabe Onah, also spoke, expressing his appreciation for the continuous cooperation from both band leaders and members. He highlighted how this teamwork contributes significantly to maintaining the carnival’s sustainable growth and peaceful progression within the state.
Gov Otu names Edem Duke, Ita-Giwa, Uko, and others to revamp Carnival Calabar framework What led us to win Carnival Calabar twice — Leader of Calasvegas Band How Carnival Calabar addressed GBV and children’s rights issues — CommissionerDespite this, he characterized them as genuine "custodians of the vibrant and colorful creations and ideas developed over time, continually showcasing cultural institutions, economic sustainability, and the representation of our heritage." Onah suggests concluding governmental frameworks, enhancing participation from the business community, building up carnival villages and museums, broadening global outreach, and involving specialists for tactical execution amongst other measures. The key points include brief addresses from various band captains, contributions from other attendees, followed by a synopsis of the gathering provided by the secretariat.
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Tags: Carnival Calabar Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).
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