The Abia State Government has fixed December 13 and 14 2013 as date for the first ever Abia Carnival, Mr. Cosmos Ndukwe, Chief of Staff to Governor Theodore Orji, said on Monday.

Ndukwe, who also doubles as Chairman of the Carnival Committee, made this known in Umuahia, the Abia State capital while briefing newsmen on the development.


“You will recall that on the April 24, the Governor, Chief T. A. Orji, kick-started the distribution of vehicles to deserving Abia Youths at no cost to the beneficiaries and more than 400 youths have benefitted from that gesture.

“The governor, in furtherance of his desire to carry out a salient and extremely fruitful restoration and transformation of Abia, has also approved the hosting of the first ever Abia Carnival 2013 with the theme ‘Showcasing our Cultural Heritage’ slated to hold from Dec. 13 and Dec. 14.’’

Ndukwe, who lamented that the tourism potential of the state was often not appreciated, noted that the present administration had done well in that sector.

“Many are not aware of the rich cultural heritage that abounds in Abia. Many cannot imagine the tourism potential we have conscientiously garnered in the last few years.

“This carnival will, apart from offering Abia people a dynamic tool for self-expression and exploration, provide also a platform for us to prove to the world that tourism destination we have become.

“It will also feature rich cultural displays. There will be financial rewards to Abia citizens that have distinguished themselves, especially in the social world.

“The reward will be to boost their endeavours while serving as a formidable springboard for upcoming ones. We intend to gather our best together for the world to appreciate.’’

He, therefore, admonished residents of the state and other organizations to seize the opportunity provided by the event to make their presence felt in the state.

“It is expected that our corporate friends and especially distinguished Abia people both at home and in the Diaspora, will identify with this noble cause as we are kick-starting it from today.

“The government is already talking with some of them to see how they can key into this great opportunity to help themselves and to show-case their products, especially the multinationals.’’