We Are Not Just Hosting Africa’s Biggest Street Party – Gov Otu Tells Plan For Calabar Festival

Governor Bassey Otu says preparations for this year’s Carnival Calabar and the Christmas festivities have begun in earnest, with a full-scale citywide beautification drive across the state capital.

Otu said the initiative is designed not only to refresh major routes but also to present Calabar as a model of elegance, orderliness, and civic pride ahead of Africa’s biggest street party.

According to the governor, the beautification effort will cover the entire carnival corridor — from Marian to MCC, Efio-Ette to Mary Slessor — and every stretch in between. He said the government is repainting, cleaning, and uplifting public spaces to ensure the city reflects the warmth and hospitality Cross River State is known for.

“This season is our moment to showcase the elegance, warmth, and hospitality that define Cross River State,” Otu said. “Our city is not just hosting Africa’s biggest street party; we are setting the standard for beauty, orderliness, and civic pride.”

He called on residents, businesses, and community groups to take ownership of the effort, describing it as a collective responsibility that will shape how the world sees Calabar during the festivities.

“I invite every resident and business owner to be part of this simple but powerful effort,” he said. “Let’s keep Calabar clean, colourful, and welcoming. Let’s show the world who we are.”

Otu added that the Carnival belongs to the people and represents their shared pride and identity, stressing that the success of the festival will be a reflection of the unity and cooperation of the state.

“The Carnival is ours. The pride is ours. And together, the glory will be,” he said.