The Cross River State Carnival Commission has unveiled big plans for Carnival Calabar 2026, with a projected socio-economic impact exceeding last year’s N19 billion.The Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Gabe Onah, disclosed this on Sunday in Calabar during the flag-off of the first dry run for this year’s festival.According to Onah, the theme for the 2026 edition is “Rethinking Our Collective Destiny,”a theme he said reflects Governor Bassey Otu’s vision of love, equality and unity.“From my point of view of working with the Governor, I see him trying to equalize humanity. We are a common people, we are a common race, and nothing beats love.
The carnival continues to remain the creative platform for our children to excel,” Onah said.He noted that the theme evolution under the present administration has been intentional — from “Season of Sweetness” for the return of peace and love, to “Our Shared Prosperity,” and “Traces of Time” for the 20th anniversary.“This year, he went back to his Pandora’s box to speak to the equality of mankind and that one humanity is the only way out to what became of the world after COVID,” he added.*Beyond Dance: Economy and Digital Innovation*Onah said the Commission is now deliberately harnessing culture as soft power to drive tourism revenue.
“Last year, the socio-economic impact was N19 billion. But we realize that we can make more,” he said.For 2026, the carnival is going digital. Spectators will no longer be just watchers — they can now register online, vote, and actively decide who becomes Band of the Year.“We are dedicating an immersive opportunity for spectators to contribute. You and I will vote and register to become band members like we see in the Premiership League,” Onah explained.Davido Confirmed, Thousands ExpectedThe Chairman confirmed that Afrobeats superstar Davido has already signed to headline this year’s carnival, with several other countries showing interest to participate.Between 10,000 and 52,000 revellers are expected to storm Calabar for the festival.The flag-off, which coincided with the 67th birthday of Governor Bassey Otu, marks the official countdown to Africa’s biggest street party coming up in December.
