In a celebration where culture meets creativity, T2 took centre stage at the 2025 Calabar Carnival, reinforcing its commitment to fostering connections not just through technology, but through people, talent, and shared cultural experiences.

As the official Digital Technology Partner of Africa’s largest street festival, T2 sponsored the Carnival’s Talent Hunt, a platform spotlighting emerging performers from across the region. This activation aligns with the Carnival’s 2025 theme, “Traces of Time,” reflecting on history, celebrating the present, and projecting a bold cultural future for Cross River State and Nigeria.

Now over 20 years old, the Calabar Carnival has evolved into a month-long spectacle featuring more than 60 events, including music concerts, sports competitions, fashion showcases, cultural exhibitions, and community initiatives. Attracting visitors from Nigeria and beyond, the Carnival has become a major tourism driver and a vibrant showcase of Nigeria’s creative economy.

Investing in Human Potential

At T2’s Talent Hunt, over 20 contestants competed in dance and singing categories, showcasing raw passion and originality. The top three performers received cash prizes and branded gifts, rewarding not only performance but potential.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Ugo Solomon, Coordinator for T2 Vigovim Nigeria, described the initiative as an expression of the brand’s values.

“For T2, this partnership is about visibility with purpose. The Calabar Carnival allows us to celebrate Nigerian creativity while engaging a massive audience. We are here to empower communities through seamless digital experiences,” Solomon said.

Private-Sector Collaboration for Cultural Growth

Effiong Ekpenyong, Special Adviser on Events Management to the Governor of Cross River State and Chairman of the Carnival Committee, highlighted the significance of private-sector involvement in sustaining the festival.

“T2’s focus on local talent, sports, and tourism speaks directly to the spirit of the Carnival and our vision for cultural and economic development,” he said.

Celebrating Talent and Opportunity

The Talent Hunt winners were:

• Zeke Otu – ₦20,000 cash prize and branded gifts (Overall Winner)
• Samuel Nsikak – ₦10,000 and branded gifts (Runner-up)
• Life Sunday – ₦10,000 and branded gifts (Runner-up)

“This opportunity means everything. Platforms like this give us the courage to dream bigger and take our gifts further,” said Zeke Otu, visibly moved by his victory.

Through its strategic partnership with the Calabar Carnival, T2 is demonstrating how technology brands can meaningfully embed themselves in culture, supporting creativity, amplifying local voices, and boosting tourism and economic growth. The brand is not just sponsoring a festival—it is powering stories, connections, and possibilities that extend far beyond the Carnival stage.