Countdown to Abuja Carnival 2009

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Just as the FIFA U-17 is rounding off, there is yet another exciting event about to kick off in Nigeria - The Abuja Carnival.


With ten days to go before it starts, this years Abuja Carnival promises to be an exciting and unique event. The carnival scheduled for 21st to 24th November 2009.


The annual event is the brainchild of the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation in collaboration with Nigeria - the Heart of Africa project.


The first Carnival was held in 2005 and has been held annually. In 2006 the Abuja Carnival, won the Commonwealth Best Carnival for Year award. The event attracts a large number of spectators from within and outside Nigeria.


The mission of the Carnival is to exhibit Nigeria's rich culture, elegance and aesthetics through indigenous and contemporary performance.


The Abuja Carnival is said to be the largest street carnival and culture of its kind in the world.


On the first day there is usually a formal Opening Ceremony at Abuja's Eagle Square performances by the Children of Nigeria at Millennium Park.


To date, six countries have indicated an interest in attending the "Command Performance Event" which will be graced by special guests such as Ambassadors, High Commissioners, Ministers, Commissioner and State Governors. These countries are Ghana, Niger, Benin Republic, Germany, South Africa and Sao Tome.


So what can we expect at this years carnival? Activities at past carnivals have included a boat regatta, Durbar (a display of horses and horsemen in artistic formation commonly found amongst the people of Northern Nigeria), Floats, masquerade fiesta, contemporary music fiesta, traditional music and dance, children and youth programmes and cultural nights and food fairs.


The Artistic Director of the 2009 Abuja Carnival, Professor Ojo Rasaki Bakare says that this year's edition would shake the world.