CROSS RIVER, CALABAR – The Executive Chairman of Akpabuyo Local Government Area, Hon. (Prince) Effiom Bassey Effiong, has approved a new committee to coordinate the council’s participation in the 2025 Cultural Carnival.
According to an official statement issued on Tuesday by the Office of the Chief Press Secretary, the committee is expected to design and deliver a culturally rich and community-driven presentation for next year’s festival.
The statement listed Elder Dr. (Mrs.) Abigail Duke as Chairman, while Dr. Emmanuel Duke will serve as Co-Chairman, with nine others drawn from various professional and cultural backgrounds.
Other members of the committee include Hon. Innocent Mbukpa, Hon. (Prince) Etim Bassey Effiong, Mrs. Ame Effiom Otu, Mr. Godwin Effiom, Hon. Amukwa Inameti, Mr. Edem Ewa Effiom, Mr. Etim Edet Essien, and Mr. Felix Nakanda.
Ms. Juliet Bassey N. was appointed Secretary and will oversee documentation, communication, and coordination across all working units within the committee.
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Prince Ekpo Effiom Effiong, who signed the statement, said the committee’s mandate is to “showcase Akpabuyo’s heritage, creative prowess, and diverse talents through a vibrant and well-coordinated carnival outing.”
He explained that the administration intends to use the 2025 parade as a platform to strengthen cultural identity, boost local participation, and promote tourism-driven economic opportunities within the LGA.
He added that a successful carnival outing would “project Akpabuyo as a rising cultural hub with distinct traditions deserving national attention.”
The council assured residents that the committee will immediately begin consultations and planning to ensure early preparations, broader community involvement, and a presentation that reflects the area’s cultural values.
Officials also encouraged cultural groups, youths, and artisans to engage with the committee as Akpabuyo works to deliver one of its most compelling carnival outings yet.