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Nothing Can Stop Us – Otu Assures As Carnival Calabar 2026 Dry Run Holds
Nothing Can Stop Us – Otu Assures As Carnival Calabar 2026 Dry Run Holds
Cross River State Deputy Governor, Hon. Peter Odey, has conveyed Governor Senator Bassey Edet Otu’s assurance that Carnival Calabar 2026 will surpass previous editions.
Speaking at Mary Slessor Roundabout in Calabar during the carnival’s dry run, Odey highlighted unity, wider participation and new innovations, including online voting.
The 2026 edition, themed “Rethinking Our Collective Destiny,” is expected to showcase Cross River’s cultural heritage, colourful displays and enduring carnival spirit.
October 18, () – Cross River State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Agbe Odey, has assured carnival lovers that the 2026 edition of Carnival Calabar will be bigger and better, with increased participation and new innovations.
Odey gave the assurance on Sunday at Mary Slessor Roundabout, Calabar, while speaking on behalf of Governor Bassey Edet Otu during the dry run for the 2026 carnival, themed “Rethinking Our Collective Destiny.”
He said the theme underscored the importance of unity and collective responsibility in achieving the state’s aspirations.
“We are one people as a state, one people as a country, and if we come together and work together, there is nothing we cannot achieve as a state,” he said.
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The deputy governor described Carnival Calabar as one of the best street parties in the world, noting that the enthusiasm of participants remained undiminished despite the rain during the dry run.
“Nothing can stop us. Like today, you can see that the rain cannot stop us,” he said.
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Odey also highlighted the introduction of online voting as one of the innovations designed to expand participation beyond Calabar, allowing carnival enthusiasts in other parts of Nigeria and abroad to support their favourite bands.
He said the state government was committed to improving the carnival experience with each edition, while maintaining the cultural identity and colourful displays that have made the festival a major tourism attraction.
Responding to expectations for this year’s edition, he assured residents and visitors that the festival would surpass the previous year’s performance.
“Wait for the fireworks. This year is going to be better than last year. I can assure you of that,” he said.
The 2026 edition marks the carnival’s 21st edition and is expected to showcase Cross River State’s cultural heritage, creative talent and tourism potential, while promoting the theme’s message of shared aspirations and collective progress.
Carnival Calabar remains a major feature of Cross River State’s tourism calendar, attracting performers, visitors and cultural enthusiasts from within and outside Nigeria.
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