Lagos is set to host Africa’s first-ever E1 Electric Powerboat Championship between October 3 and 5, with organisers and the Lagos State Government promising a world-class spectacle that will spotlight Nigeria’s commercial capital as a hub for tourism, innovation, and sustainability.
The landmark event, known as the E1 Lagos GP, will bring together more than 250 sports personalities and nine international teams, including those backed by global icons Didier Drogba and Will Smith. For the first time, the world’s only all-electric powerboat championship comes to African waters, placing Lagos alongside Monaco, Venice, and Jeddah as a prestigious global host city.
At a press parley on Monday, E1 Series Chief Executive Officer, Rodi Basso, said Lagos secured hosting rights after competing with several world-class cities, a move he described as “a major milestone for sport, sustainability, and commerce in Africa.”
“The ocean is one of nature’s most challenging environments, yet the boating industry is changing. To overcome existing challenges, organisations must redesign and innovate in ways unseen before. The E1 Series showcases technical prowess and proves boats can become more sustainable by leveraging alternative power and unique architecture,” Basso said.
He noted that the partnership with the Lagos State Government would not only sustain the technology-driven sport but also attract investment opportunities in global sport and entertainment.
Mr. Sam Egube, Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), said the event would serve as a global showcase for Lagos’ energy, culture, and economic potential.
“For Lagos, the City of Aquatic Splendour, this is proof of capacity. We are hosting an event that merges speed, sustainability, and innovation. It signals economic opportunity, tourism growth, and global prestige,” Egube declared.
He stressed that the championship aligns with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration’s commitment to sustainability, innovation in marine transport, and global conversations on climate action. “History is happening here. Lagos is racing for the future, for Africa, for the world,” he said.
Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, said the influx of tourists during the E1 championship would boost the local economy, urging artisans, traders, fishermen, and hospitality businesses to take advantage of the opportunities.
Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, added that the event would promote alternative water transport and revealed that Lagos is set to unveil the Omi Eko Project, which will deploy 72 electric boats to ease traffic congestion and deepen sustainability efforts.
Mr. Gboyega Akosile, Special Adviser to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Media and Publicity, said the governor remains passionate about securing Lagos’ present and future under the THEMES+ development agenda.
“Lagos is ever ready for activities that spotlight it globally, generate revenue, and expand the state’s GDP,” he said.
Veteran sports journalists at the event hailed the initiative, noting that hosting Africa’s first E1 race will place Lagos firmly on the global sporting map and reinforce its position as the investment capital of Africa.
About the Author
