Governor Bassey Otu on Sunday launched the 2025 carnival dry run, heralding the beginning of what he said would be a spectacle of celebration of culture, unity, and creativity.

Speaking at the event at the Millennium Park, Calabar, Mr Otu expressed optimism in the success of the 2025 edition.

”It is a historic convergence of reconciliation, cultural revival, and global attraction for Africa’s biggest street party,” the Cross River governor said.

While extending invitations to tourists and fun-seekers across the world, he assured that the 2025 Carnival Calabar festival would be one of the most vibrant and colorful editions ever witnessed.

“I am welcoming the whole world to Calabar. Enjoy this great party with us, if you do not come, you are going to miss a lot.

“We have the biggest street party right here in Calabar, the world needs to know that the Season of Sweetness is not just about governance; it is also about joy, culture, and unity.

“The theme this year, ‘Traces of Time’, captures our journey through culture, creativity, and transformation, you will see your heritage beautifully displayed here in Calabar, the home of culture and heritage,” he said.

Mr Otu commended the organisers, band leaders, and stakeholders in the state’s creative industry for their perseverance and commitment to sustaining the Carnival Calabar brand over the past two decades.

He urged them to make the 20th edition of the carnival a landmark anniversary edition truly unforgettable.

The maiden dry run officially signals the start of rehearsals and route testing for the grand parades slated for December.

(NAN)