Calabar carnival unveils new theme and innovations for 2026
The Governor of Cross River, Bassey Otu, has introduced the theme for Carnival Calabar 2026, aiming to boost participation and economic opportunities. The unveiling event in Lagos brought together tourism stakeholders, diplomats, and cultural enthusiasts. According to Bassey Otu, the new theme reflects a vision to reimagine the carnival’s future and expand its global appeal. Organisers also announced several innovations to make the festival more inclusive and engaging.
What we know
- Bassey Otu unveiled the Carnival Calabar and Festival 2026 theme, ‘Rethinking Our Collective Destiny’, at an event in Lagos.
- The 2026 edition will introduce online voting to allow communities and audiences to participate more actively.
- Organisers are working with creative partners to develop movies and digital platforms inspired by the carnival.
- The festival is being repositioned to create jobs and business opportunities for young people through commercialisation.
- Tourism stakeholders highlighted the carnival’s role in promoting cultural heritage, economic growth, and global connections.
