Edo Carnival Organizers Thank Participants, Assure Winners of Pending Payments

The organizers of the maiden edition of the Edo Carnival have expressed profound appreciation to participants, volunteers, sponsors, and partners for their contributions to what they described as a successful inaugural cultural celebration.

In an official statement released by the Edo Carnival Organizing Team, management commended the dedication, creativity, and resilience displayed by all stakeholders, noting that their collective efforts laid a strong foundation for what is envisioned to become a landmark annual event in Edo State.

According to the statement, the first edition of the carnival was delivered despite significant financial and logistical challenges, including limited sponsorship support. The team emphasized that, throughout the planning and execution stages, priority was given to the welfare of participants and volunteers.

“We ensured that participants and volunteers were provided with basic provisions, including regular transportation and feeding throughout the event,” the statement read, underscoring the organizers’ recognition of the critical role played by individuals who brought the carnival to life.

However, the team formally acknowledged that prize payments for winners of the Band Competition are yet to be disbursed due to funding constraints stemming from a shortfall in anticipated sponsorship revenue.

Management assured affected winners that the obligation remains a top priority and that concrete steps are being taken to secure the necessary funds.

The organizers pledged that all outstanding payments would be settled before the commencement of the second edition of the Edo Carnival, adding that no prizes would be forfeited.

Describing the funding setback as a common hurdle for first-time initiatives, the team maintained that such challenges would not define the future of the event. Instead, they said the experience has strengthened their resolve to build a more structured, better-funded, and more impactful second edition.

The statement concluded with a call for continued patience and support from volunteers, stakeholders, and the wider community, expressing optimism that the Edo Carnival will grow into a proud cultural symbol for the state and beyond.

The maiden edition marks what organizers believe is the beginning of a lasting cultural platform aimed at celebrating heritage, creativity, and unity within the community.