Cross River State to Honor Former Governors at 2025 Carnival Calabar Kickoff

Cross River State plans to honor four former civilian governors, Dr. Clement Ebri, Mr.

Donald Duke, Senator Liyel Imoke, and Professor Ben Ayade, during the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony on November 30, 2025, to commence the month-long Carnival Calabar. This gesture, approved by Governor Bassei Otu, signifies the start of the event and will mark the 20th anniversary celebration of the Carnival Calabar.

The ex-governors will receive the state's highest merit honor for their leadership contributions, with a statue to be permanently mounted on the wall of heroes at the Millennium Park. They will also be presented with a 24-carat gold star medal symbolizing their leadership excellence and notable contributions to the state's growth, highlighting their significant roles in Cross River's political development history.