Colour, rhythm and movement took over the streets of southern Nigeria as thousands of people poured into Calabar for its annual carnival celebration. Every December, the capital of Cross River State transforms into a lively cultural playground, attracting close to two million visitors from different parts of Nigeria and other countries.
This year’s edition stood out for its broader international presence, with representatives from the ECOWAS region and support from the Portuguese and Spanish embassies. According to the carnival’s chairman, Gabe Onah, the expanded participation reflects a deliberate effort to reconnect with history while strengthening cultural cooperation. He explained that the festival is about honouring past leaders and traditions, celebrating the present, and setting a foundation for the future.
Popularly described as “Africa’s Biggest Street Party,” the Calabar Carnival is more than just a spectacle of costumes and music. It serves as a unifying space where families, friends and visitors come together to share moments of joy and connection. Many attendees see it as a time for reunion and reflection.
One of the revellers, Joseph Eyo, captured the mood of the event, describing it as a season filled with happiness, excitement and togetherness. For him and many others, the carnival represents laughter, shared memories and the chance to reconnect with loved ones.
The theme for this edition, Traces of Time, highlighted the festival’s focus on heritage and continuity. Established in 2004, the Calabar Carnival was designed to position Cross River State as a major centre for tourism and hospitality. Over the years, it has grown into Nigeria’s largest carnival and a globally recognised cultural event, drawing attention to the country’s rich traditions and creative spirit.
