Lays foundation for Duke Town Cathedral annex
Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has officially introduced a new yearly event into its tourism calendar.
The event, titled: “Carnival Parade of Thanksgiving and Festival of Praise,” popularly known as the “Jesus Carnival,” will be held every Easter season.
The maiden edition was held on Easter Monday in the state capital, Calabar, and was flagged off by the governor, alongside his wife, Bishop Eyoawan Bassey Otu. The colourful and spiritually charged event, marked by splendour and cultural flair, is a spiritual offshoot of the globally celebrated Carnival Calabar, traditionally held every December.
Organisers explained that the Jesus Carnival is designed as a moment of collective gratitude to God for the success of Carnival Calabar and the continued progress of the state. It blends faith, culture, and thanksgiving into a unique Christian celebration during the Easter season.
MEANWHILE, Otu has started the construction of a new annexe for the Duke Town Cathedral in Calabar, a move seen as part of his support for faith-based and community development projects.
The governor was represented at the foundation-laying ceremony by his Chief of Staff, Emmanuel Ironbar.
He attended the event with his wife, Mrs Virginia Ironbar, along with government officials, state lawmakers, and other dignitaries.
Ironbar said the new annexe shows the governor’s dedication to spiritual and community development in the state. “Otu is a man of deep faith, a lover of God, and a dedicated supporter of the gospel mission in Cross River State and beyond,” he said.
He thanked the Church and the congregation for their continuous support and prayers, assuring them that the government would continue supporting initiatives promoting peace and unity.
Ironbar also spoke about the historical importance of the Duke Town Cathedral, describing the new annexe as a way to expand its role in the community. “This project will create more room for worship, outreach, and spiritual growth,” he said.
The Prelate of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria also thanked Governor Otu for the initiative. He praised the governor’s focus on spiritual development, calling it a foundation for peace and progress in the state.
