In recent days, Calabar has been buzzing with excitement following the arrival of a colony of elephants at the Cultural Center. High Chief Edem Duke has provided clarity and deeper insight into what lies ahead.
Since the arrival of the elephants, large numbers of young people returning from Independence Day celebrations have thronged the Cultural Center. “In fact, we have had to turn back hundreds of young people,” Duke revealed.
“The enthusiasm is overwhelming, but patience is required as work is still ongoing.”
He explained that while the elephants have attracted huge public attention, they represent just a small aspect of a much larger project. “There will be other things here that are even bigger and more spectacular than the elephants,” he assured.
High Chief Duke emphasized that the presence of the elephants does not mark the official opening of the Cultural Center. “No, the fact that the elephants have come does not mean that the Cultural Center is open. It’s a work in progress. We’d like members of the public to note that it is not open.”
He further highlighted the broader vision for the project: “It is not for Carnival. This is going to be a true community hub. It just happens to be located near the epicenter of the Carnival,” he said.
According to Duke, the new Cultural Center will become a vibrant space for socialization, leisure, tourism, and a wide variety of activities and events. “Calabar is going to experience something spectacular,” he added.
Using the occasion of Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, High Chief Duke also commended the efforts of His Excellency, Governor Bassey Edet Otu.
“We need patience, we need prayers, we need commitment and support for this government,” he said. “Cross River State is at the threshold of being the new destination for Nigeria, for business, leisure, agriculture, and more. Ultimately, we all will get to enjoy the facility that the government is putting in place at the Cultural Center.”
