The streets of Calabar, the Cross River State capital, came alive on Saturday as the 2025 edition of the Carnival Calabar opened with a colourful cultural procession.
The event, which began at the Millennium Park, featured representatives from the state’s 18 local government areas at the opening ceremony, drawing residents, visitors and public officials.
Speaking on the carnival, now in its 20th edition, Ikechi Uko, organiser of the AKWAABA African Travel and Tourism Market, said the event was designed to highlight the traditions and cultural diversity of Cross River communities.
“Many confuse tradition with culture but they are not the same.
“Tradition is the living practice; culture is the broader identity,” he said.
Mr Uko explained that the cultural procession that marked the opening of the carnival represented tradition, while the street carnival scheduled for December 29 would be contemporary.
“The carnival is showcasing the culture of the people but the cultural carnival today is the traditional carnival.
“This is the one they got from their parents. The one you’re going to see on the 29th is the one they created for themselves,” he said.
He dismissed claims that the Calabar festival eroded the heritage of the people, stating that it reflected the culture of the people today.
He described the street parade as a cosmopolitan festival where participants expressed their identity.
The procession moved from Millennium Park through Marian Road to Rabanna Roundabout, where the groups displayed their culture and history before guests and officials.
Large crowds lined the streets, creating a lively atmosphere.
Families attended the event, with children dancing and playing while traders sold snacks and street food.
Music and announcements filled the air as dancers entertained spectators.
One of the highlights was the contingent from Ikom Local Government Area, led by its chairman, Mercy Nsor.
Groups from several states, including Delta, Edo, Kebbi, Katsina, Rivers, Ebonyi, Niger, Nasarawa and Osun, also took part.
The visiting groups showcased their cultures through food, music, dance and costumes.
The procession ended around 8.00 p.m. and later moved from Rabanna Roundabout to the U.J. Esuene Stadium for the final event of the day.
