Nine states in attendance as Calabar Cultural Carnival kicks off

•Zenith Bank Partners State As Official Sponsor

Nine states across Nigeria have participated in the flag off ceremony of 2024 Calabar Cultural Carnival. The participating states include; Kebbi, kogi, Niger, Akwa Ibom, Edo, Adamawa, Delta, Osun and Ebonyi.

Additionally, the 18 local councils of Cross River also took part in the event with their distinct costumes, showcasing their cultural prowess while embodying this year’s theme, “Our Shared Prosperity.”

Speaking at the flag off held at the Millennium Park in Calabar, the state Governor, Senator Bassey Otu urged the participants to seize the opportunity presented by the escalated prizes for winners to display their utmost talents.

While welcoming the participants, the governor said the Cultural Carnival marks a significant day in the carnival calendar. “I pledged last year to introduce enhancements to our offerings, and I believe we have delivered on that promise,” Otu stated.

He urged fun seekers to enjoy the cultural displays. Unveiling the new incentives, the governor announced that his administration has augmented the prizes this year to ensure heightened competition, with plans for further enhancements in the upcoming year.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Carnival Commission, Mr. Gabe Onah, emphasided that the cultural carnival serves as a promotional tool for the state’s tourism, which encapsulates the essence of the people’s culture.

“Our shared prosperity, the central theme of this year’s carnival, epitomizes the essence of Cross Riverians. It embodies our culture, characterised by our ability to extend warmth and hospitality to others,” he stated.

Onah, highlighting that Cross River culture is the foundation on which its tourism thrives, stated that the state tourism efforts aimed to ignite a sense of community spirit.

The event witnessed participants showcasing their cultural legacy along the carnival routes, pausing at three evaluation points to demonstrate their rich talents while embodying this year’s theme.

The event attracted members of the National Assembly, representatives from financial institutions, members of the state executive council, and council chairpersons.

Similarly, Zenith Bank Plc comes onboard as an official sponsor of this iconic event, infusing the festival with even more energy, innovation, and a renewed sense of purpose.

This year’s theme, “Our Shared Prosperity,” has resonated deeply with the Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, who expressed, “We are thrilled to present an even greater array of activities, as we come together to celebrate Our Shared Prosperity.”

The Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, in her remarks expressed enthusiasm, stating ‘’The Calabar Carnival resonates with Zenith Bank’s numerous CSR projects and we are proud to be part of this legacy of the Cross River State people.

At Zenith Bank, such CSR projects that touch lives and engender unity are considered critical, like the Zenith Youth Parade which we sponsor annually in Lagos. We congratulate the Governor for the elaborate preparations for this year’s carnival and we look forward to it’s resounding success’’

CEO of Okhma Global Limited, the official Carnival Calabar and Festivals Brand Marketing Company, Mary Ephraim-Egbas, said: “Zenith Bank’s partnership in showcasing Cross River State’s talent and fostering local empowerment aligns perfectly with the theme of ‘Our Shared Prosperity.’ This collaboration enhances their connection with the Cross-River community, promotes economic growth, and creates new opportunities for all, positioning Zenith Bank as a key player in driving collective prosperity.”

Receiving the brands partnership and sponsorships, Chairman of CRS Carnival Calabar Commission, Sir Gabe Onah, added, “Zenith Bank’s support is invaluable. It helps us elevate the festival and increase its global visibility.” His statement perfectly aligns with the festival’s theme, demonstrating how partnerships like Zenith’s are essential in showcasing Nigeria’s creativity and talent to the world, creating opportunities for economic growth and cultural exchange.

With Zenith Bank’s sponsorship, the 2024 Calabar Carnival is set to be a celebration like no other, bursting with excitement, creativity, and unity. As the festival draws near, it promises to stand as a powerful testament to the spirit of shared prosperity, where cultural heritage, innovation, and community come together to create lasting impact.