GLANCE MAGAZINE NIG. one | Page 11

CROSS RIVER STATE AT A GLANCE FESTIVALS IN THE STATE W hen talking about mixing pleasure with business! Calabar is the place for you. There are many festivals in the state, which brings in tourist from far and wide to relax and enjoy themselves. Just like every other cultural and heritage diversities, festivals in the state also varies from community to community...and there range from The new yam festival, Aji Festival, Fishing festival for the people of Abi, Bohomono and Ebom community. The Cassava festival, Abu Festival [Age grade ceremony] for the people of Obubra in Adon Community. And the Benguen festival for the people of Ogoja in Mbube community. Other festivals, include the Cross River State Christmas Festival, which events have become Nigeria's strongest tourism brand, ranging from musicalperformances, fashion shows, boat regatta, traditional dances, the annual ekpe festival and the annual Calabar carnival which is the largest street cultural festival in Africa alongside the recent initiated biker's parade. POLITICS: W hile the state government is run by an executive governor in line with the presidential system the local government areas are governed by a Local Government Chairman (Executive) and Councillors who are the Legislature. However, the traditional institution still has a very important role as the custodians of the culture and traditions of the land. The paramount ruler in each Local Government Area presides over the council of chiefs in the Local Government. The council is made up of clan heads who take charge of the village heads and clan councils, with duties to interpret the traditions of the people and to ensure conformity and maintenance of peace and tranquillity. ART/CRAFTS: C alabar is also well known for its beaded works which are a peculiarity of Cross River State, common craft works are beaded caps, beaded wall hangings, shoes, Ekpe Masquerade made with rafia, cane chairs, brass trays, rafia clocks, Motif work and a lot more. These can be found in crafts shop within the State. 9 Glance Magazine