The Port Harcourt Carnival held from December 13-17, 2011, at the Liberation Stadium, Elekahia, Port Harcourt, was quite unique, as the atmosphere was engulfed with ecstasy.
Various local government areas showcased their rich socio-cultural heritage, clad in different cultural attires which added colour and life to the event.
The Rivers State Governor, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi in a keynote address delivered at the grand finale, commended the various local government areas, and social groups who participated and emerged victorious in the just concluded Port Harcourt Carniriv.
“Let me congratulate all of you that have won. My band will win next year”, Governor Amaechi stated.
This was followed by presentation of awards to the various local government areas who performed well, by the artistic director, Dr. Sam Dede, as Okrika Local Government Area (WALGA), emerged first position as the best overall Local Government Area winning the sum of N5 million naira.
Degema Local Government Area, took second position, as Eleme LGA, came out first as the LGA with the best decorated float.
The award of the best costumed chairperson was given to Ogu-Bolo.
The best freestyle award was given to Jubilee band with the sum of N3 million naira.
Also speaking a the event, the Hon. Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, who was also the Vice chairman of CARNIRIV 2011, Organizing Committee, Dr. Nabbs Imegwu, stated in his speech: “we have been elevated to greater height by Port Harcourt CARNIRIV. We must appreciate the efforts of the governor. As the Treasure Base of the country, we have the responsibility of harnessing our tourism potentials to enable or aid harmonious living among the people of Rivers State”.
elevated to greater height by Port Harcourt CARNIRIV. We must appreciate the efforts of the governor. As the Treasure Base of the country, we have the responsibility of harnessing our tourism potentials to enable or aid harmonious living among the people of Rivers State”.
Finally, Rt. Hon. God’s blessings, and journey mercies to their various destinations.
Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, expressed profound thanks to the organizers, participants, and all who attended the carnival, as he wished them God’s blessings, and journey mercies to their various destinations.
By George Banimi
