Calabar: The Cross River Tourism Bureau (CRSTB) has assured stakeholders, including visitors, that the state is fully prepared for the hosting of the 2025 Carnival Calabar. The board has expanded hotel capacity, improved airlift, enhanced security, and upgraded tourism infrastructure to ensure a successful event.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Ojoi Ekpenyong, Managing Director of CRSTB, gave the assurance in a statement on Monday, as the state marks 20 years of sustaining Carnival Calabar as an international cultural brand. Ekpenyong highlighted that the carnival, widely regarded as Nigeria’s biggest street party, attracts thousands of local and international tourists every December. He emphasized that the carnival is the flagship of the state’s tourism calendar, with spillover events extending to destinations such as the Obudu Mountain Resort.
Ekpenyong stated that the government and people of Cross River are celebrating 20 years of sustaining an international brand with the Carnival Calabar and Festival. As part of the preparations, the state government has strengthened its air connectivity through CallyAir, acquiring two new aircraft to ease access to Calabar during the festive period. Additionally, about 4,000 hotel rooms have been prepared, and a grant has been approved to assist owners of hospitality facilities in cleaning up their establishments.
The state has also invested in beautification and urban renewal, including early festive lighting across major roads and unveiling one of the tallest Christmas light towers in Nigeria. Ekpenyong noted that the roads are wearing new looks with asphalt, and there is the introduction of VIP seats for visitors during the street party. The opening of a cinema this month at the Calabar Marina Resort is also part of the attractions.
He assured tourists of safety, emphasizing that security remains a top priority for the state government before, during, and after the carnival. Ekpenyong mentioned that the state’s version of Detty December started on November 1 at the Christmas Village and will continue across multiple locations in Calabar through the end of the year.