Cross River Governor Prince Bassey Otu said the state’s security structure is strong and therefore ready to host the world during the 32-day event.
The Governor flagged off the first dry run for the 2023 Carnival Calabar, Sunday, at Millennium Park, with the theme “Season Of Sweetness”.
The Governor, represented by his Deputy, Rtd Hon Peter Odey noted that the 2023 Calabar Festival would be better than any other festival in Nigeria’s history.
“We are going to have the best Carnival that this country has ever seen this year.
“We are ready and all the service commanders are here and what that means is that we are ready.
“So, we are sending message to our friends out there in America, London, Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago that their security is safe in Cross River, we are ready, very ready to host you, ready to welcome you because this year’s Carnival will be the best in the world, the governor assured.
Earlier, the Chairman of the State Carnival Commission, Gabe Onah, averred that to ensure a smooth running of the carnival, the state government has fixed all the street lights and stayed committed to keeping the streets cleaner.
More than 5,000 revelers gathered along the 12-kilometer routes, attracting hundreds of spectators. The following bands took part in the 12km festival routes: Masta Blasta, Freedom, Seagulls, Bayside, Calas Vegas, Passion 4 and Diamond Carnival Band.
Commenting on the development, Special Adviser on Event Management, Effiong Ekpenyong, said the Calabar Festival also organized a prize draw in which the winner would take home a brand-new SUV.
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