Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has officially launched the 2025 Bikers Carnival in Calabar, reinforcing his administration's dedication to safety, tourism, and international cultural exchange. The event, a key highlight of the annual Carnival Calabar festival, was declared open on Saturday, 28th December 2025.
Safety First: A Governor's Personal Assurance
Represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Governor Otu delivered a strong message of security and preparedness to participants and the global community. He revealed that he personally inspected the designated carnival routes to guarantee they were in optimal condition for the bikers.
"Let us tell the world that Cross River State is safe. I have gone round the routes myself; there are no potholes and the roads are smooth," the Governor stated emphatically.
He emphasized strict adherence to safety protocols, mandating the use of helmets and reflective vests by all riders. To ensure a seamless event, the state government deployed ambulances, medical personnel, and secured comprehensive insurance coverage for participants. "With doctors on ground, ambulances stationed, and insurance fully covered, we want this carnival to be remembered only for positive reasons," Otu added before the official flag-off.
International Acclaim and Cultural Homecoming
The carnival attracted significant international attention, underscoring its growing prestige. The Chairman of the Cross River State Carnival Commission, Mr. Gabe Onah, highlighted the event's role in cultural preservation and engaging the youth. He also noted the presence of a delegation from the ECOWAS Commission, representing 12 member states, which points to expanding regional opportunities in business and the creative sector.
The Ambassador of Portugal to Nigeria, Mr. Paulo Santos, offered profound praise, linking the event to deep historical ties. "Calabar means 'the quiet harbour' in my language," he explained, describing his visit as a cultural "homecoming." Impressed by the organization and scale, Ambassador Santos remarked that the carnival seemed to have the legacy of an event organized for "200 or even 2,000 years." He pledged to encourage fellow diplomats in Abuja to experience Carnival Calabar firsthand.
A Fulfilling Moment for the Diaspora
An emotionally charged moment came from 86-year-old Mr. Richard Nzerem, a diasporan from Imo State who has lived in the United Kingdom for over six decades. He expressed profound gratitude to the Cross River State government for the opportunity to witness the Bikers Carnival, which he described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience that left him deeply fulfilled.
The successful flag-off of the 2025 Bikers Carnival solidifies Calabar's position on the global tourism map, demonstrating Governor Otu's commitment to hosting safe, world-class events that celebrate culture and foster international exchange.
