Mafikizolo, Flavour, others for Carnival Calabar
South African Hip Hop duo, Mafikizolo and Nigeria’s Flavour have been named as some of the 30 artists expected to headline the 2017 edition of the ‘Carnival Calabar and festivals.’ Speaking to newsmen at the unveiling of the festival calendar, Special Adviser to the Cross River State governor on Events Management, Mr. Ken Aklah, said, […]
South African Hip Hop duo, Mafikizolo and Nigeria’s Flavour have been named as some of the 30 artists expected to headline the 2017 edition of the ‘Carnival Calabar and festivals.’
Speaking to newsmen at the unveiling of the festival calendar, Special Adviser to the Cross River State governor on Events Management, Mr. Ken Aklah, said, other artists expected at the event include David, Patoranking, Runtown, Timaya, Tanzania’s Vanessa Mdee, Rwanda’s Neza, Inyanya, Style Plus, MC Galaxy, Naeto C, DJ Humility, Tekno and DJ Jimmy Jait, among others.
Aklah said, “Despite the difficult times, the Prof Ben Ayade’s administration in the state will continue to ensure that this noble venture that has brought Cross River to global prominence is not truncated.”
He added that about 25 countries are expected, even as government has introduced new offerings into the event as a deliberate measure to boost the excitement for visitors.
These include the Power Week which starts from December 26 with a cultural carnival in which the 18 local government areas of the state and 22 other states will participate.
Bikers parade and Miss Africa beauty pageant will take place on December 27, while 28 is the actual carnival and 29 will see viewers watching another newly introduced package – ‘wonders on wheels for vintage cars and convertibles.’
On security, Aklah explained that operational vehicles have been handed over to the various security agencies in the state and are already stationed at strategic positions, adding that, “a security camp has also been established and furnished at the Christmas village.”
He said the last dry run of the carnival to hold on December 17, will be flagged off by the Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, “to ensure that Cross River remains relevant as the flagship of tourism.”
The international carnival is slated for the night of December 29, a green carnival and street party will hold on December 30 while the fireworks to herald the New Year, will hold on the 31st.