By Joe Ephraim, Calabar
The Cross River State Government has unveiled the official mascot and introduced a new Diasporan Band for the 20th anniversary of Carnival Calabar, solidifying plans for the celebration of Africa’s Biggest Street Party.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, the state’s Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Peter Odey, described the moment as “another iconic chapter” in the state’s two-decade journey of building a world-class cultural and tourism brand.
During the event, Odey, alongside the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Elvert Ayambe, unveiled the landmark mascot, which is described as “a design symbolizing the pride and identity of the Cross River people.”
Unveiling it on behalf of Governor Otu, Odey declared, “Carnival Calabar has become part of our identity, part of our history, and will stay with us for the rest of our lives.”
The celebrations are guided by this year’s carnival theme, “Traces of Time,” which explores the historical and cultural journey of the Cross River people. This theme was strengthened in October when the state welcomed 92 members of the global African diaspora for a reconciliation homecoming.
That emotional visit directly paved the way for the newly introduced Carnival Calabar Diasporan Band.
The band’s unique theme, “Epic Journey Through Time,” aligns with the main carnival theme and focuses on telling stories of historical pain, resilience, reconnection, and reconciliation.
The Chairman of the Carnival Commission, Gabe Onah, emphasized the band’s significance, stating, “We are unveiling the Carnival Calabar Diasporan Band with their unique theme that ties directly to ‘Traces of Time.’ They are speaking to the pains of history and the desire to reconcile.”
Onah used the occasion to call on people of African descent worldwide to join the Diasporan Band, saying, “I call on all diasporans around the world — including myself — to join the Diasporan Band and help chart a new direction for Carnival Calabar.”
The event also featured Ms. Valerie, a cultural representative from Trinidad and Tobago, whose presence symbolized the strengthening of cultural ties between Caribbean and African carnival traditions.
With the unveiling of both the official mascot and the Diasporan Band, Cross River State has signaled its readiness to host an unforgettable 20th anniversary edition, reaffirming its status as a global cultural destination.
