By Frank Ulom
The theme of Carnival Calabar 2018 Festival has been unveiled and it was dubbed “Africanism”.
Unveiling the theme on Monday, the Cross River State governor, Sen. Ben Ayade charged band leaders to ensure they promote the true African cultural heritage in their parades.
He said, “This year’s carnival Calabar will tell the African story. Telling the African story from the African perspective. It will bring the global attention to the plight of Africa.”
Governor Ayade further lamented the schemes of the Western world designed to ensure the continent remains the whipping dog of the world as well as under their political and economic control.
Ayade has since assumption of office in 2015, chosen themes that deal with continental Africa for the 11th, 12th and 13th editions of what is been tagged ‘Africa’s largest street party.
While commending the Cross River State Carnival Commission, organisers of the carnival for taking the Carnival from number 15 to number 2 in the world in just three years, Ayade also questioned, “Who said we can’t be number one in the world, who said Brazil must always be number one.”
Speaking earlier, Mr. Gabe Onah, Chairman, Cross River State Carnival Commission, assured that the commission is making efforts to put everything in place to ensure that Carnival Calabar becomes one of the greatest events in Africa and beyond.
He noted that the Carnival has offered an opportunity for the state to tell its own story to the world. “Your Excellency, you have been called a man of connectivity because you have brought the whole of Africa under one roof.”
Mr. Onah also announced Botswana, the home of current Miss Africa winner will be attending the International Carnival for the first time.
Some of the dignitaries at the unveiling include International Carnival Consultant and organiser of Akwaaba Travel Market, Mr. Ikechi Uko, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Eric Anderson, Special Adviser Governor’s Office, Hon. Kenn Aklah, Miss Africa 2017, Miss Gaseangwe Balopi and a host of others.
