Cultural troupes from Ghana, Cameroon and 15 states in Nigeria were among those that shone at the 2023 Calabar Cultural Carnival on Wednesday.

The event, which witnessed cultural performances from the 18 Local Government Areas of Cross River, had different cultural groups in colourful cultural attire.

Declaring the event open, the Deputy Governor, Mr Peter Odey, said it was “one of its kind as it is happening in the season of sweetness.’’

In his remarks, Chairman, Cross River Carnival Commission, Gabe Onah, said that out of the 22 states that expressed interest, 15 had arrived at the time of the inauguration of the cultural carnival.

Mr Onah listed states that were on ground to include Enugu, Kebbi, Edo, Rivers, Kaduna, Kwara, Yobe, Ondo, Ekiti and Akwa Ibom.

He said, “Today marks the bedrock of our tomorrow. Culture is what unites us. It is our true strength. We are live with over 15 million viewers on DSTV and other platforms.”

The leader of the Akwa Ibom contingent, Abigail Akpakip, said that the attendance was “a bit low due to the economic situation in the nation.’’

Commending the government of Cross River for good planning, Ms Akpakip said the few states in attendance were passionate about showcasing their cultural heritage.

Also, leader of the cultural troupe from Ondo State, Mr Haruna Abu, said the carnival was an improvement from what they saw in the previous years.

He added that they were okay with the logistics and accommodation for the troupes.

The performing states and local governments were judged at different adjudication points on the carnival route.

The criteria for determining the best performing states included the costume, dance, use of time and theme presentation.

Prizes are to be awarded to the best three states and local governments.

(NAN)