The Cross River government says it is hopeful that the annual Calabar Carnival will be bigger and better in December 2022.

The state’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Eric Anderson, told reporters that the 2022 edition of the carnival would be “a robust farewell carnival” for Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River.

Mr Anderson said the carnival had been approved by the State Executive Council, adding that the 2020 and 2021 editions were put off due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said the 2022 edition of the carnival would be bigger and better because its two-year absence gave the tourism ministry the space for expansion.

“The 2022 carnival has been given approval by the State Executive Council. We did not hold the 2020 and 2021 carnival due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.

“As we speak, carnivals around the world have started production, and we can see that the Covid-19 protocols have been relaxed.

“As a member of the committee, we feel we should also resume as well. Tourism is one aspect of culture that has put Cross River on the World Tourism Map,” he said.

The commissioner, who described the carnival as “a plot and play event”, said its structure was still alive and strong despite the years that the festival did not hold.

He stated that two more bands had been added to the existing five to expand the carnival to accommodate more participants.

The commissioner said the seven bands would be Seagull, Passion 4, Masta Blasta, Bayside, Freedom, Diamond, and Calas Vegas.

Mr Anderson assured tourists coming to participate in the carnival of adequate security, adding that they be treated to lots of fun, cultural display and dance among others. 

(NAN)