In an interview conducted on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, Mr. Effiong Ekpenyong, JP, the Special Adviser on Event Management for Cross River State, discussed the community’s involvement and cultural representation at the upcoming Calabar Festival.
“The annual Calabar Festival season is an exciting time that everyone in Cross River State looks forward to. It represents the organic involvement of our residents,” said Mr. Effiong Ekpenyong.
He revealed that the festival will feature a Calabar Festival Audition, giving homegrown artists a platform to showcase their talents and perform at the event. This initiative highlights the state’s commitment to nurturing local talent.
Additionally, the Cultural Carnival, managed by the Carnival Commission, will provide a platform for full state participation. This includes the Local Government Area Day Celebration, where all 18 LGAs of Cross River State will gather to display their talents. The winning LGA will receive a prize at the end of the event.
Continuing the “Season of Sweetness” in Cross River State, Mr. Ekpenyong emphasized that even children will not be left out. “We will host a performance at the Calabar Cultural Centre featuring theatre, music, and dance. The Mummy Mma Adiaha Children’s Outing will also take place, offering kids a day of fun with food, drinks, music, dance, playground activities, and a swimming pool at the Calabar Museum. We have put measures in place to ensure the safety and security of our children throughout the festive period.”
Mr. Ekpenyong also announced that preparations are underway for the 2024 Sales of Goods at the Calabar Festival Village Municipal Auditorium, where vendors have already sold out all available spaces. “People tend to make good profits during this season, and we are looking forward to supporting local businesses in this way.”
Construction at the Festival Village will begin next week, and by November, water, lighting, and other essential facilities will be fully operational, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable festival. From December 1, vendors will be ready to open their shops and begin their businesses at the Calabar Festival Village.
On the entertainment front, Mr. Ekpenyong promised to bring back the status of Nigerian national artists to the festival. “We are bringing one of Nigeria’s most honored artists to perform and shut down the Calabar Stadium. Expect the return of some of the biggest music sensations at this year’s festival.”
In conclusion, Mr. Ekpenyong encouraged Nigerians to book their tickets early and make plans to visit Calabar, “a peaceful city, the Paradise of Pleasures.” He also noted that the Executive Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has facilitated the acquisition of additional aircraft for Cally Aero Flights to accommodate international visitors. He also assured that the Federal Government has committed to the continued work on the Calabar Itu Highway, ensuring smoother travel for visitors.
“Make Destination Cross River your goal this festive season. We will be here to welcome you to the ‘Business of Pleasures’—think Cross River,” he concluded.
Stay tuned for more updates on the 2024 Calabar Festival.
Evang. Samuel Obinna Chukwu Imo
Correspondent, Calabargist
