A veteran of Carnival Calabar, Mr Tikenob Osaji, has urged the Cross River State Government to harness the state’s flagship cultural festival to improve the lives of homeless children roaming the streets of Calabar.
Osaji made the call while speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the ongoing 20th Carnival Calabar on Sunday.
He appealed to the government to establish a special Carnival band for vulnerable children and provide shelters that would permanently take them off the streets.
Osaji, who participated in the parade under the Etung Local Government Area contingent, said he has followed the Carnival since its inception in 2005 and has watched it grow into a globally recognised cultural event.
Describing the festival as one that continues to improve, he commended the organisation of the 2025 edition, noting steady progress in planning and execution over the years.
“The improvement that happens every new edition is what makes it interesting, memorable, and keeps people coming back,” he said.
Speaking on the 2025 theme, “Traces of Time,” Osaji said it reflected two decades of impactful celebrations and highlighted increased participation by local governments across Cross River State.
However, he cautioned that the excitement of the Carnival should not distract stakeholders from the persistent presence of street children in Calabar.
“There are street kids that you can’t hide or pretend don’t exist in Calabar,” he said.
Osaji acknowledged the efforts of individuals, non-governmental organisations, and the wife of the state governor, Mrs Eyoanwan Otu, in supporting vulnerable children, but stressed that charity alone was insufficient.
“They have food and clothing, but no shelter. We have not seen them leave the streets,” he said.
He argued that while homelessness may exist globally, children deserve special protection and permanent solutions.
To bridge the gap, Osaji proposed integrating street children into the Carnival through a dedicated band, alongside the introduction of an annual scholarship and housing support programme.
According to him, investors and sponsors could be encouraged to adopt or support between 10 and 20 children yearly, providing education and stable homes.
He noted that many street children possess untapped talents, adding that participation in Carnival activities could help reconnect them with society and restore hope.
Osaji urged the state government, the tourism bureau, and Carnival organisers to develop a structured programme that links street children with investors, visitors, and foundations willing to assist.
“If the government introduces them into the band as part of the festivities, people can adopt them or key into meaningful initiatives,” he said.
He added that such steps would give vulnerable children a sense of belonging and a renewed chance at a better future.
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