The Cross River State Government has announced the closure of a 12-kilometre stretch of road in Calabar on Sunday, October 18, 2026, as preparations intensify for the 2026 Carnival Calabar celebration.
The announcement was contained in a press release issued by the Cross River State Carnival Commission, which advised residents, motorists and visitors to prepare for temporary traffic restrictions during the first dry run of the carnival season.
According to the Commission, the road closure will begin at 1:30 pm and remain in force until the event ends.
The main dry run is scheduled to commence at 2:00 pm from Millennium Park, Calabar, and proceed along the designated 12-kilometre carnival route.
Alternative Routes for Motorists
To reduce traffic congestion and minimise inconvenience, the Carnival Commission has announced four alternative routes for motorists to use during the exercise.
Route 1: From Flour Mill in Essien Town through Diamond, Leopard Town (Governor's Office), Moore Road and Marina Road (Bayside), continuing towards Watt and Calabar South.
Route 2: Goldie Street through Etta Agbor.
Route 3: From Calabar Municipality through Parliamentary Extension, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Bypass, Atimbo Roundabout and IBB Way to Etta Agbor, before returning to Calabar South.
Route 4: Ibok Street, near Parliamentary, through MCC by Timber, Akai Efa and Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Bypass.
The Commission urged motorists to plan their journeys ahead of time and follow the designated alternative routes to avoid unnecessary delays.
Security, Traffic Management Arrangements
The Carnival Commission said security and traffic management personnel would be deployed to guide motorists, manage movement and maintain order throughout the exercise.
It also appealed to residents and other road users to cooperate with the authorities, while apologising for any inconvenience the temporary closure might cause.
Residents Invited to Join the Excitement
Beyond the traffic restrictions, the Commission invited residents, visitors and carnival enthusiasts to come out and experience the excitement as activities for the 2026 Carnival Calabar season gather momentum.
The first dry run is part of the preparations for the annual carnival, one of Cross River State's major cultural and tourism events.
Residents travelling within Calabar on Sunday are advised to take note of the announced closure time, consider alternative routes and allow extra time for their journeys.
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