The Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council, Hon. Christopher Agbeh, has called on the Cross River State government to domesticate Carnival Ogoja in order to encourage greater participation and foster the area's economic development.
The Chairman, who was represented by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Emmanuel Idi Yakubu, made the call during the presentation of the 2024 Carnival prizes to the winners. He noted that the event's success has brought the people closer to tourism and led to significant business growth, benefiting markets and other business sectors.
Hon. Agbeh further stated that the council is in talks with the Forestry Commission to explore the potential for establishing a tourism and recreational village using the region’s green vegetative areas, which would serve as a permanent venue for the carnival. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with the Carnival Commission to develop a more suitable and permanent location for the event.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Ogoja Carnival, Hon. Emmanuel Ishabor, expressed appreciation to the Council Chairman for providing necessary support, including security and facilities, that contributed to the success of the carnival. He promised that future events would be even better.
The Executive Secretary of the Carnival Commission, Mr. Austin Cobham, praised the contribution of the Council Chairman before, during, and after the event. He emphasized that the carnival should not only be viewed as a street dance but also as an important economic driver, bringing business growth and expansion to the area. Mr. Cobham urged the Council Chairman to continue collaborating with the Forestry Commission to create a tourism and recreational village as an additional attraction for potential tourists.
On behalf of the award winners, Hon. Egana Patrick thanked the Carnival Commission for fulfilling their promises. He noted that the prize redemption would serve as a boost and encouragement for greater participation in future events.
The highlight of the meeting was the formal presentation of cheques to the winners: Hillside Band of Obudu won First place with a prize of Three Million Naira, Golden Band of Ogoja took Second place with Two Million Naira, and Excellence Band received Third place with One Million Naira.
In attendance were Mr. James Ekpe Bullem, Head of PRS, Mr. Effiom Bassey, Head of Marketing, and Mr. Mark Asaba, among others.
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