The Cross River State government has unveiled the theme for the 2013 Calabar Festival at the main bowl of the Cultural Centre Complex, Calabar.
The annual carnival is regarded as the second biggest brand in Africa after Nollywood with over 50 million spectators globally.
To this end, the government said “plans are underway to making this year’s event the best ever experienced since its twelve years of existence in the state”.
The state governor, Liyel Imoke gave the assurance at the unveiling, which was themed “Ain’t No Stopping Us”.
The Calabar Carnival has grown to be a brand identified internationally, copied locally and even exported to other states and countries following its rich content.
Unveiling the theme which is expected to be interpreted by five participating bands, The Seagull, Master Blasta, Freedom Band, Passion4 and Bayside, Imoke spurred the bands members to reflect on the states culture, history , creativity and above all measures geared towards promoting the tourism industry in their quest for the interpretation of the theme.
Chairman of the Carnival Commission, Gab Onah as well as the only female band leader senator, Florence Ita-Giwa assured of new innovations at this year’s event, not forgetting its economic benefits to the state.
As the world await this epoch making event adjudged the biggest street party in Africa and scheduled for the 26th and 27th of December Annually, it is expected that this year’s live audience will outgrow last years.
Awards were also given to bands who emerged victorious at last year’s carnival.
