Traces

Of

Time

The Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja radiated elegance on Wednesday, May 14th, 2025 as the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, officially unveiled the theme for Carnival Calabar 2025 "Traces of Time."

Unveiled during the 20th anniversary celebration of Carnival Calabar, the theme reflects the enduring legacy and evolution of Africa's biggest street party, an event that continues to define the cultural and creative identity of Cross River State.

Speaking at the unveiling, Governor Otu highlighted the origin of the carnival, initiated in 2005 by former Governor Donald Duke, and described it as more than just a parade of colors and sound:

"Carnival Calabar is not just a parade of colors; it is a bold expression of our collective dreams, cultural heritage, and economic ingenuity. Today, we are celebrating not just a carnival, but the soul of our people and the heartbeat of Cross River's tourism and creative economy."

Over the past two decades, Carnival Calabar has expanded beyond the streets of Calabar to other cities within the state creating multiple income streams for tailors, artists, fabricators, food vendors, hoteliers, petty traders, bars, and event operators. It remains a powerful engine for youth empowerment and local enterprise.

The event also featured former Governors Donald Duke and Senator Liyel Imoke, both instrumental in shaping the carnival's journey. Governor Otu urged stakeholders and fun seekers to embrace the renewed vision of the carnival and witness its grand 20th edition this December 2025 in Calabar.

In his remarks, Mr. Gabe Onah, Chairman of the Cross River State Carnival Commission, paid tribute to the bold vision that transformed a 12-kilometer stretch into the world's longest carnival route. He emphasized the shift from spectacle to sustainable impact:

"Our young people now dance not just to entertain, but to earn, to express, and to inspire. Carnival Calabar is a living legacy of purpose-driven culture."

Tourism expert and Africa's cultural ambassador, Ikechi Ukoh, described the carnival as a rare African tourism product with enduring global appeal, noting that Calabar has emerged as one of the few Nigerian cities that stand apart from negative global perceptions.

As preparations unfold, the 2025 Carnival Calabar promises to be a fusion of history, performance, and forward-thinking innovation, staying true to its roots while embracing the future, a true trace of time.