The Cross River State Government has unveiled plan to expand the reach and economic impact of Carnival Calabar, with measures aimed at attracting diaspora participation, monetising carnival content and boosting tourism-driven revenue ahead of the 2026 edition.

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State, disclosed these plans yesterday in Lagos during the official unveiling of the 2026 Carnival Calabar theme.

The 2026, which is the 21st edition is with the theme: ‘Rethinking Our Collective Destiny.’
According to Otu, the state was working on a framework to stream the carnival globally and monetise its content as part of efforts to position the annual festival as a major economic driver and maintain its status as Africa’s biggest street party.

He maintained that Cross Riverians in the diaspora were also being mobilised to participate actively in the festival, promote the Carnival Calabar brand internationally and provide material support for its continued growth.

Otu explained that apart from its cultural significance, the annual theme unveiling also marked the beginning of business opportunities for residents and investors, particularly within the informal sector, while also fostering homecoming and family reunions.

He added: “Meanwhile, for us in Cross River State, the Carnival theme unveiling goes beyond the symbolic ceremonial commencement of carnival activities. It is rather the opening of a vista of opportunity for the development and expansion of businesses, especially the informal sector; the creation of an enabling environment for home-coming and family bonding.

“So for us, as we unveil the Carnival Theme, we are simultaneously presenting both leisure and business offerings to everyone; which are too inviting and compelling to ignore.
Commenting on the 20th edition of the carnival, which was held for 32 days in the state, Otu, described the event as a remarkable success, stressing that it showcased creativity across diverse art forms and attracted increased tourist arrivals to the state.

He further commended sponsors, corporate organisations, participating carnival bands and tourists for their support, which he said contributed significantly to the success of last year’s celebration.

The governor further disclosed that the state’s creative economy was currently undergoing a comprehensive overhaul through the development of new tourism assets aimed at creating jobs, generating revenue and attracting both repeat and first-time visitors.

The governor expressed that the government was committed to strengthening Cross River’s position on the national and international tourism landscape and called on existing and prospective sponsors to sustain their support.

According to him, sponsors would continue to enjoy wider visibility for their brands and assured returns on investment through their association with Carnival Calabar.