The 20th edition of the Calabar Carnival has commenced with a spectacular display of cultural richness, attracting an estimated global viewership of 15 million through a live broadcast on DSTV.
Commissioner for Information in Cross River State, Erasmus Ekpang, who shared insights into the carnival’s triumph, revealed that hotels in Calabar have been fully booked since Tuesday, underscoring the immense anticipation surrounding the event.
In an exclusive interview, Commissioner Ekpang conveyed the state’s infectious enthusiasm, highlighting that only those who foresaw the accommodation rush and secured bookings in advance are currently spared from the lodging squeeze.
He remarked, “We are genuinely thrilled with what we have witnessed so far, and we are confident that it will only get better. As I speak with you, hotels in Calabar are fully booked, leaving visitors to find lodging in the homes of locals. We even have three visitors from Mali staying with a friend of mine because there is no available hotel space. Those who had the foresight to book their accommodations in advance are the fortunate ones.”
Ekpang underscored the vital role of sponsors, including banks and DSTV, in ensuring the carnival’s success. These partnerships have significantly contributed to the event’s prominence and grand scale, solidifying its status as a pivotal cultural milestone.
