By: This day

A First for Africa and a Global Showcase

The organisers of the E1 Series and the Lagos State Government have announced their readiness to host a world-class E1 Electric Powerboat Championship next month in Nigeria’s commercial capital. The event, scheduled for October 3 to 5 in Victoria Island, will bring together over 250 sports personalities and marks the first time the championship is held in Africa. This landmark occasion symbolises Lagos’ commitment to clean energy, climate action, innovation, tourism, cultural exchange, commerce, sustainability, water transportation, and sports potential. By hosting the E1 Lagos GP, Lagos joins elite global host cities like Monaco, Venice, and Jeddah, underscoring its role in international sustainability conversations.

Economic and Investment Opportunities

During a press conference, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of E1 Series, Rodi Basso, revealed that Lagos competed with other global cities to secure the hosting rights, a achievement that is expected to open the state to significant investment opportunities in global sport and entertainment. Basso confirmed that nine teams, including those owned by Didier Drogba and Will Smith, will participate in the electric boat racing. He emphasised that the technology-driven sport would be sustained through a partnership with the Lagos State Government, highlighting how the event showcases innovation in sustainable marine transport and alternative energy solutions for watercraft.

Showcasing Lagos’ Potential and Sustainability Leadership

Mr. Sam Egube, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and Deputy Chief of Staff to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described the event as a global showcase for Lagos’ culture, energy, and economic potential. He noted that the championship aligns with the administration’s commitment to sustainable energy and innovation in marine transport. Egube stated that hosting the E1 GP signals economic opportunity, tourism growth, and global prestige for Lagos, elevating Nigeria’s profile as a modern and progressive nation. He emphasised that the event offers a chance to highlight Lagos’ cultural heritage, attract tourists and investors, and demonstrate the city’s capacity as a thriving hub.

Boosting Local Economy and Water Transportation

Members of the LOC, including the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, expressed optimism that the influx of tourists would boost the local economy. She urged artisans, traders, fishermen, and hospitality industry workers to leverage the opportunity for economic development. The Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, highlighted the untapped potential of Lagos waterways and noted that the championship would encourage the use of alternative water transportation. He also revealed that the Omi Eko project, which will introduce 72 electric boats, aims to boost water transport and reduce road congestion.

Administrative Support and Future Vision

The Special Adviser to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, reiterated Lagos’ readiness to host events that spotlight the city, generate revenue, and increase its GDP. He emphasized the governor’s passion for building a sustainable future for Lagos in line with the THEMES+ developmental agenda. Veteran sports journalists at the event commended the Lagos State Government for this initiative, noting its potential to enhance Lagos’ status as the investment capital of Africa on the global sporting map.