The Kalabari Kingdom has begun preparations for what is expected to be a landmark cultural and traditional event, following the inauguration of a 16-unit Central Planning Committee for the coronation of the Amanyanabo of the Source, Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Dabaye Amakiri I, Africa Update reports.
The committee was inaugurated on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at the Amanyanabo’s Ipokuma residence in Degema Consulate, ahead of the Se Diye and Coronation ceremonies scheduled for December 19, 2026.
Inaugurating the committee, the Amanyanabo charged members to work collectively to deliver a ceremony that would showcase the rich cultural heritage, traditions and dignity of the Kalabari people.
The event brought together prominent Kalabari personalities, traditional stakeholders, professionals and other members of the planning team, who have been assigned responsibilities covering the various aspects of the historic ceremony.
Da Amakiri Tubo said the committee was established to ensure effective planning, coordination and execution of the activities associated with the coronation across the three principal locations of Elem Kalabari, Buguma and Obuama.
A press statement signed by Spokesman and Chief Press Secretary to the Amanyanabo of the Source (Elem Kalabari, Torusaramapiri), Alabo Daerefa-a Christopher Braide, disclosed that Chief Prince Tonye T.J.T. Princewill heads the Central Planning Committee as Chairman, while Chief Dr David T. Briggs and Chief Dr Emi Membere-Otaji serve as Co-Chairmen. Dr Emi Iyalla is the Secretary, with Alabo Daerefa-a Christopher Braide as Assistant Secretary.
The 16 specialised units cover key areas including Media and Publicity; Culture and Coronation; Transport and Logistics; External Relations; Contact and Mobilisation; Venue and Catering; Protocol and Access Control; Security; Accommodation; Finance; Souvenirs; Secretariat and Documentation; Boat Regatta; Kalabari Dancing; Environment and Works; and Medical Services.
A Local Organising Committee has also been constituted to complement the work of the Central Planning Committee. It is chaired by Amb. Sobomabo Jackrich (Egberipapa), with Alabo JackLloyd Thomas as Vice Chairman and Alabo Wabiye Idoniboye-obu as Secretary.
The various units are headed by prominent Kalabari figures with experience relevant to their respective responsibilities. Their assignments range from coordinating cultural displays and traditional ceremonies to managing transportation, security, accommodation, medical services, media coverage, environmental arrangements and the highly anticipated boat regatta and Kalabari dancing.
To ensure accountability and effective coordination, the Central Planning Committee has established specific terms of reference for the 16 units.
Each unit is required to submit a detailed work plan and budget within seven days of its appointment for consideration and approval by the Central Planning Committee. No unit is permitted to incur expenditure or make financial commitments without prior written approval.
The units are also required to submit weekly progress reports to the Central Planning Committee, which will report directly to the Palace of the Amanyanabo of the Source.
The committee further directed the various units to work collaboratively where their responsibilities overlap, particularly in activities involving Elem Kalabari, Buguma and Obuama, in order to promote coordination, avoid duplication and ensure the smooth execution of the programme.
With the elaborate planning structure now in place, attention is turning to the delivery of a coronation that will not only mark a significant traditional milestone but also provide a platform for the Kalabari people to project their cultural heritage, unity and identity.
The December 19 ceremony is therefore expected to bring together traditional institutions, dignitaries, cultural groups and members of the Kalabari community for a celebration designed to reflect the history, traditions and enduring values of the kingdom.
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