From Judex Okoro, Calabar
About 30 countries are expected to participate in the 2016 annual Calabar Carnival, chairman, Calabar Carnival Commission, Mr. Gabriel Onah, has disclosed.
Onah, who made the disclosure during the flag off of the second carnival dry run in Calabar, yesterday, listed the countries to include, Brazil, Ukraine, China, Italy, Spain, Ghana, Kenya and others.
He said the theme, ‘Climate Change’ which was the same as that of 2015, was retained because the issues of environment were still on the front burner.
Wife of the governor, Mrs Linda Ayade, who kicked off the dry-run, said the carnival theme was unique because of the concern for the environment.
“We are dedicating the 2016 Calabar carnival to climate change. As we participate in the second dry run today, I wish all of us a peaceful street dance along the carnival routes,’’ she said.
“We are putting in place the best form of arts and entertainment to ensure that tourists will have the best of tourism and hospitality during the carnival.
“Calabar carnival is 12 years on the road march and the festival experience has been amazing. I am happy today that we also have 30 beauty queens from African countries to grace this dry-run,’’ he said.
Commissioner for New Cities Development, said the carnival had promoted talent and creativity, adding that it has united the people of Cross River and Nigeria in general.