CALABAR CARNIVAL ON THE MOVE

I am currently in Calabar. Aside from having been here to see the last edition of the  Carnival Calabar, I have had the good luck of being here to see some of the post-event actions too.

Just two days ago, the head of the Tourism Corporation was on air to do a review. Most salient amongst the things he revealed are (1) that the Calabar Christmas Festival, of which the Carnival Calabar forms the pinnacle has achieved 60% sponsorship level. Great news (2) That sale of tickets for segments of the festival, which includes sale for covered seats at the adjudication points of the Carnival is on the rise as evidenced by the last edition and (3) that his organisation is planning to have all year round tourism events .


Just as if to ride on that, it came to light barely 24hours thereafter that some communities within the state have taken it upon themselves to replicate the Carnival Calabar in their communities. Brilliant way, I say, of spreading the joy and discouraging rural -urban migration.

Kudos to  the Cross River State and all its functionaries.

Proof once again that we are right who say the tourism and culture sector should shake off its image of drain pipe.