Calabar, often fondly called “Canaan City,” is the capital of Cross River State, located in Nigeria’s South-South geopolitical zone. Nestled by the banks of the Calabar and Great Kwa Rivers and overlooking the creeks of the Cross River, the city is one of Nigeria’s oldest and most historically significant settlements. The city is traditionally home to the Efik, Ejagham, and Qua peoples, whose rich cultural heritage is still evident in the modern city’s festivals, cuisine, and social life. Efik is the indigenous language of the city, but English and Nigerian Pidgin are widely spoken across different ethnic and social groups. The major religion in Calabar is Christianity, though a number of indigenous African traditional practices still thrive in certain quarters.
Quick Facts Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| City | Calabar |
| State | Cross River |
| Geopolitical Zone | South-South |
| Estimated Population | 700,000+ |
| Indigenous Tribes | Efik, Ejagham, and Qua |
| Common Languages | Efik, English, Pidgin English |
| Known For | Tourism, Calabar Carnival, Colonial history |
City Overview
Calabar has an estimated population of over 700,000 residents, making it one of the smaller but most cosmopolitan cities in Nigeria. Prominent neighbourhoods include Marian, State Housing Estate, Federal Housing, Ikot Ansa, Big Qua, and Atimbo. The city is famous for the annual Calabar Carnival, Africa’s biggest street party, which draws visitors from around the world every December with its colourful parades, cultural displays, and musical performances.
Food lovers will find Calabar’s culinary culture irresistible. Dishes like Afang soup, Edikang Ikong, Afia Efere (white soup), and Ekpang Nkukwo are famous both within and outside Nigeria. Local markets and roadside food joints make these delicacies accessible year-round.
Important Landmarks
Calabar is rich in colonial and natural landmarks. The city is home to the National Museum Calabar, housed in a building that was once the British colonial government headquarters. Other popular attractions include Marina Resort, which features a cinema, boat rides, and a slave history museum, and Tinapa Business Resort, an integrated business and leisure resort with shopping complexes and a film studio.
Healthcare facilities like University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), Lily Hospitals, and General Hospital Calabar provide medical services to residents. Notable educational institutions include the University of Calabar (Unical) and Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH).
Geography
Calabar covers an approximate land area of 406 square kilometres. The city falls within the tropical monsoon climate zone, with a high average annual temperature of about 26°C to 28°C. The region experiences two distinct seasons: a long rainy season from March to October and a short dry season from November to February. Calabar’s lush vegetation, numerous creeks, and rivers contribute to its natural beauty and tourist appeal.
Economy
Calabar’s economy revolves around tourism, government administration, trade, and agriculture. The city has historically served as an international seaport, a status that continues to support local commerce. The Calabar Free Trade Zone (CFTZ) is a hub for import, export, and light manufacturing industries.
Popular markets such as Watt Market, Marian Market, and Bogobiri Market offer a range of products including fresh produce, seafood, local fabrics, and crafts. The hospitality industry thrives in Calabar, especially during the festive season when hotels and resorts record peak occupancy rates.
History
Founded in the early 16th century, Calabar was once a major centre of the transatlantic slave trade. The city’s name is believed to have originated from the Efik word “Calabari,” a term used for its trading post. It was one of the first Nigerian towns to establish contact with European traders.
During the colonial period, Calabar served as the capital of the Southern Protectorate of Nigeria before the administrative seat moved to Lagos. Historical sites like the Duke Town Church, one of the oldest churches in Nigeria, and old colonial houses are reminders of this significant past.
Fun Fact
Calabar is often credited as the cleanest city in Nigeria, a reputation it built under the administration of former governor Donald Duke. The city’s urban management strategies and beautifully maintained public spaces still earn it praise today.
