Gabriela Ezin, Calabar
Carnival Calabar 2026 is targeting economic gains beyond the N19 billion recorded last year, with organisers introducing digital voting and online registration to give spectators a greater role in the annual street festival.
Chairman of the Cross River State Carnival Commission, Gabe Onah, disclosed this in Calabar on Sunday during the flag-off of the first dry run for the 2026 edition.
Onah said the carnival would focus on humanity, unity, economic growth and digital innovation under the theme, “Rethinking Our Collective Destiny.”
He explained that the theme reflects Governor Bassey Otu’s vision of promoting love, equality and unity as foundations for collective progress, particularly in a world still grappling with divisions and the aftermath of COVID-19.
“From my point of view of working with the Governor, I see him trying to equalise humanity. We are a common people, we are a common race, and nothing beats love. The carnival continues to remain the creative platform for our children to excel,” he said.
Onah traced the thematic evolution of the carnival under the present administration, noting that previous editions focused on “Season of Sweetness,” “Our Shared Prosperity” and “Traces of Time,” which marked the festival’s 20th anniversary.
According to him, the 2026 theme seeks to reinforce the idea that shared humanity and equality are essential to overcoming the challenges confronting the world.
Beyond its cultural significance, the carnival is also expected to strengthen tourism, create economic opportunities and attract investment to Cross River State.
“Last year, as you are aware, the socio-economic impact was N19 billion. But we realise that we can make more,” Onah said.
He announced that the commission was introducing digital platforms that would allow spectators to register online and vote for their preferred carnival band, making them active participants in determining the festival’s winners.
“We are dedicating an immersive opportunity for spectators to contribute to who becomes the band of the year. So they are now active participants, not just watching. You and I will vote and register to become band members like we see in the Premiership League,” he said.
On entertainment, the carnival chairman confirmed that Afrobeats star Davido had signed on to perform at the 2026 edition, while several countries had also indicated interest in participating in the festival.
He said the commission expected between 10,000 and 52,000 revellers, although the event currently underway was only a test run ahead of the main festival in December.
The flag-off, which coincided with Governor Otu’s 67th birthday, marked the countdown to the December festivities, which organisers hope will further establish Calabar as a major destination for cultural tourism and entertainment.
