The 2026 Carnival Calabar has been officially launched with the unveiling of the theme, “Rethinking Our Collective Destiny,” as stakeholders position Africa’s biggest street party as a major driver of tourism and economic growth.
At the colourful launch ceremony in Lagos, the Cross River State Government said the carnival is evolving beyond a cultural celebration into a platform for job creation, investment, revenue generation and global tourism promotion.
The Cross state Governor senator Bassey Otu noted that the festival continues to attract visitors, boost local businesses and strengthen the state’s creative economy, while plans are underway to expand its international reach through digital streaming and content monetisation.
Tourism experts and industry leaders like Mr. Ikechi Uko, Dr. Edem Duke and the FTAN president described Carnival Calabar as one of Nigeria’s most successful tourism products, capable of attracting more international visitors and generating significant economic benefits for communities, artisans, hospitality operators and small businesses.
They urged greater collaboration among travel agencies and tourism promoters to market the festival globally.
The event also received international endorsement from the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, who described Carnival Calabar as a powerful showcase of Nigeria’s creativity, culture and peaceful coexistence.
As preparations begin for the 2026 edition, stakeholders say the focus is no longer only on entertainment but on using tourism, culture and technology to drive sustainable economic development and position Cross River as a leading destination on the global tourism map.
Reporting By Nosa Aituamen