Lagos gears up for Africa’s first E1 Electric Powerboat Championship

The organisers of the E1 Series and the Lagos State Government have announced their readiness to host the first-ever E1 Electric Powerboat Championship in Africa, set to take place from October 3 to 5 in Victoria Island, Lagos.

The landmark event is expected to bring together over 250 sports personalities from around the world.

This was contained in a statement signed by Mr Gboyega Akosile, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Media and Publicity.

The statement reads partly: “For Lagos, the City of Aquatic Splendour, this is proof of capacity; a thriving hub of commerce, culture, and creativity hosting an event that merges speed, sustainability, and innovation. It signals economic opportunity, tourism growth, and global prestige. E1 Lagos GP elevates Nigeria’s profile as a modern, progressive, and forward-thinking nation.

“This is an opportunity to show the world what makes Lagos special: the cultural heritage and energy of Lagos people. It is also an opportunity to welcome tourists and investors and share Lagos success stories to bring in more investment and highlight the potential of the city of aquatic splendour. History is happening here. Lagos is racing for the future, for Africa, for the world.

“The Governor is passionate about today’s and tomorrow’s Lagos in line with his administration’s THEMES+ developmental agenda. Lagos is ever ready for activities that will spotlight it to generate revenue and increase its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and that of the country at large.

“This championship will also inspire artisans, traders, fishermen, and those in the hospitality industry to tap into the opportunities for economic development of the state and Nigeria at large.”

Speaking at a press parley on Monday, Mr Rodi Basso, Chief Executive Officer of the E1 Series, said Lagos competed with several global cities to secure hosting rights, which will open the state to more investment opportunities in sport and entertainment.

He revealed that nine teams, including those owned by Didier Drogba and Will Smith, would compete in the Lagos championship, adding that the partnership with the Lagos State Government would ensure the sustainability of the technology-driven sport.

Mr Sam Egube, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Sanwo-Olu, said the championship will serve as a global showcase for Lagos’ culture, energy, and economic potential.

Egube stressed that beyond its sporting significance, the E1 Lagos GP would highlight Lagos’ commitment to sustainable energy, marine transport innovation, and international tourism.

Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, said the event would attract international visitors and boost the local economy, urging artisans, traders, and hospitality operators to capitalise on the opportunities presented by the championship.

The Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwseun Osiyemi, noted that the Lagos waterways hold untapped potential and said the event would encourage greater use of water transport.

He revealed that the Omi Eko project, which will introduce 72 electric boats to Lagos waterways, aims to improve transport efficiency and reduce congestion on city roads.