Cross River Governor Kicks Off 2025 Carnival Calabar Dry Run
The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, has officially flagged off the first dry run for the 2025 Carnival Calabar, setting the tone for one of Africa’s most colourful cultural events.
Since its launch in 2004 by former governor Donald Duke, the Carnival Calabar has grown into Nigeria’s biggest street party and one of the continent’s most celebrated tourism festivals. Every year, the event features three major dry runs that allow participants to rehearse along the 12-kilometre carnival route before the main parade.
Speaking at the Millennium Park in Calabar, Governor Otu expressed excitement and confidence that the 2025 edition would surpass all previous celebrations in creativity, unity, and entertainment. He described the dry run as “a beautiful coincidence” symbolizing reconciliation, cultural revival, and the global appeal of Africa’s premier street festival.
Governor Otu also unveiled the theme for the 2025 edition — “Traces of Time” — which reflects the journey of cultural evolution, creativity, and transformation that has defined the Carnival over the years. “I am welcoming the whole world to Calabar. Come and enjoy this great party — Africa’s biggest street celebration. This year’s theme captures our heritage and showcases how time has shaped our identity,” he said.
The governor used the occasion to commend organisers, band leaders, and stakeholders in the Cross River creative industry for keeping the Carnival Calabar spirit alive for 20 years. He described the event as an opportunity to project the state’s tourism, talent, and hospitality to the world, adding that the festival aligns with his administration’s “Season of Sweetness” agenda of promoting joy, culture, and unity among residents.
The first dry run featured dazzling costumes, vibrant music, and choreographed displays from the seven competing carnival bands, each known for its unique colour and style. They include Bayside (blue), Freedom (yellow), Passion 4 (green), Masta Blasta (orange), Seagull (red), Diamond (purple), and Class Vegas (gold).
These bands will compete for several awards during the main carnival, including Best Dressed King and Queen, Best Carnival Spirit, Best Band on the Move, and Best Overall Band. The event also attracted members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, industry leaders, and diaspora representatives, all dressed in colourful attire to support the cultural spectacle.
Governor Otu concluded his remarks by urging Nigerians and tourists worldwide to participate in the celebration, promising that the 2025 edition would be more vibrant, colourful, and unforgettable. “If you miss this year’s Carnival Calabar, you will miss too much,” he said.
