LunagisthubCarnival Calabar’s Future Relies on Private Sector Investment
The Chairman of Carnival Calabar, Gabe Onah, has emphasized the need for stronger private sector investment to sustain the popular street party. Speaking at the 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market in Lagos, Onah noted that the annual carnival, which is set to turn 20 this year, was originally designed to foster community participation and economic development .
– Onah stressed that private sector investment is crucial for the long-term sustainability of Carnival Calabar, stating, “Carnival Calabar must breathe beyond the stranglehold of government.”
– The festival has been instrumental in promoting economic development in Cross River State, generating revenue, creating employment opportunities, and improving infrastructure.
– The welcoming spirit of Calabar’s people and community buy-in have been instrumental in the festival’s success .
– Today’s tourists are digital, unique, and global, emphasizing the need for embracing artificial intelligence in tourism promotion.
– Families are becoming more central to travel decisions, influencing the upgrade of the children’s carnival to a junior carnival in Calabar.
– Onah highlighted the importance of collaboration in tourism, praising Akwaaba for successfully bringing partners together .
With its rich cultural heritage and economic benefits, Carnival Calabar has become a significant event in Nigeria’s tourism calendar. The festival’s success has been attributed to the continuity provided by successive governors, including Donald Duke, Liyel Imoke, Ben Ayade, and the current governor, Bassey Otu. As the festival approaches its 20th edition, Onah’s call for private sector investment aims to ensure its continued success and growth .
Lunagisthub
