Calabar

Calabar is the capital of Cross River State in southeastern Nigeria. It was established as a port by the Efik people as far back as the 17th century. In 1884, Britain established the Oil Rivers Protectorate in Calabar, making it the centre of colonial administration for the region. The town became notorious as a hub of the slave trade and palm-oil commerce during the 19th century.

Under colonial rule, Calabar grew into a major administrative and educational centre. Large waterways were built linking it to commercial hubs. After independence, Calabar evolved into a tourism and cultural centre, especially famous for the Calabar Carnival, one of Africa's largest street festivals.

Today Calabar remains an important economic and cultural centre of Cross River State. It hosts the University of Calabar, the Cross River State University of Technology and an airport. The city's pleasant climate attracts tourists from across the globe.