By Janefrances Chibuzor
Twenty years into sustaining Carnival Calabar as an international cultural brand, the Cross River State Government has declared full readiness to host the massive influx of visitors expected during the 2025 festive season, unveiling expanded air connectivity, strengthened security architecture and improved hospitality capacity.
Managing Director of the Cross River State Tourism Bureau (CRSTB), Mr. Ekpenyong, said the preparations reflect the government’s determination to consolidate Carnival Calabar’s position as Nigeria’s biggest tourism draw and Africa’s largest street party.
According to him, the state now has over 4,000 hotel rooms, including serviced apartments and bed-and-breakfast facilities, to accommodate guests arriving in Calabar and the Obudu Mountain Resort corridor. He added that Governor Bassey Otu has approved fresh grants to support owners of hospitality facilities in upgrading and cleaning up their premises ahead of the peak travel period.
“We are celebrating 20 years of sustaining an international brand. The government is ready and the people are ready,” Ekpenyong said. “His Excellency has approved additional funding to assist hotel owners to improve standards and ensure visitors have a comfortable experience.”
In a move to address air access, the CRSTB boss disclosed that the state has acquired two additional aircraft under its airline, CallyAir, to boost airlift during the festive season. He described the expansion as a strategic investment aimed at easing travel into Cross River at a time when demand traditionally outstrips supply.
Beyond logistics, Ekpenyong emphasised security as a cornerstone of the state’s readiness. He said Cross River remains one of the safest states in the country, noting that the governor has declared zero tolerance for security breaches throughout the carnival period.
“By God’s grace, Cross River State is safe. Security has always been a priority, and there will be no compromise during the carnival,” he said.
The festive mood in Calabar has already taken shape weeks ahead of Christmas. Streets across the city have been illuminated since November, crowned by what the state describes as one of the tallest Christmas light towers in Nigeria. Major roads have received fresh asphalt, while new features such as VVIP spectator seating have been introduced to enhance the carnival experience for visitors.
Ekpenyong also announced the opening of a cinema at the Calabar Marina Resort this month, adding to the city’s growing leisure and entertainment offerings.
The state’s December-long celebrations, popularly known as “Detty December,” officially began on November 1 at the Christmas Village and will run for 31 days across multiple locations in Calabar. From live music and nightlife at signature venues such as 11/11 to street-level festivities across the city, Ekpenyong said the celebrations have already transformed Calabar into a hub of non-stop activity.
“Detty December is happening in all parts of the city,” he said. “It is already alive in our nightclubs, our streets and our major entertainment centres, creating a festive atmosphere that will build up to the carnival.”
The grand finale of Carnival Calabar is scheduled for December 29, when the city will temporarily shut down to host what has become known as Africa’s biggest street party. The event will feature an elaborate parade along a 12-kilometre route, showcasing flamboyant costumes, music, dance and cultural expressions that have earned the carnival international acclaim.
Ekpenyong said the carnival’s blend of culture, creativity and community hospitality continues to set it apart on the global tourism calendar. He expressed confidence that this year’s edition would leave a lasting impression on both first-time visitors and returning revellers.
“Our people, our food, our clean and green environment and our secured atmosphere are ready,” he said. “Nigeria, Africa and the global community will find it difficult to recover from what is about to happen in Calabar. We are ready to welcome the world home.”
With strengthened infrastructure, enhanced security and a packed programme of events, Cross River State is positioning Carnival Calabar not just as a festive celebration, but as a statement of its tourism ambitions and its capacity to host large-scale international events.
