Carnival Calabar Will Soon Be Privatized – DG, Carnival Commission

By Archibong Jeremiah/Christiana Alawa/Jonathan Ugbal

Dancers in their pre carnival attires during the dry run in Calabar

The Senator Liyel Imoke administration of Cross River State has concluded plans to privatize the Calabar Carnival.

The administration’s position was made public over the weekend by the Director General of the Cross River State Carnival Commission, Mr. Gabe Onah while speaking at the carnival’s 10th anniversary second dry run in Calabar on Sunday.

The Commissioner For Information, Chief Akin Rickets, Deputy Speaker Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Nyong Itaya and State House of Assembly Member representing Obudu, Hon. Steve Ukpukpen at the dry run

His words: “This 10th edition will be the last completely organized by the Government as a bill to privatize the carnival organization and its operation has been passed in the State House of Assembly and is awaiting the assent of the Governor”.

The bill, the DG stressed recognizes the Carnival Bands Association, CBA to organize and operate while the Carnival Commission will be responsible for policy formulation and implementation as well as ensuring standards are maintained.

The Sunday, second dry run witnessed torrential rainfall which accosted the dancers round the city center.