Lagos, Nigeria, is set to host Africa’s inaugural E1 Electric Powerboat Championship, welcoming over 250 top sports figures from around the globe on October 3 and 5, 2025, according to event organizers.
This prestigious event, staged in partnership with the Lagos State Government, marks the arrival of the E1 Series—a world-renowned electric powerboat racing championship—on Victoria Island. The championship underscores Lagos’ dedication to environmental responsibility, clean energy advocacy, and climate-conscious growth while driving innovation, tourism, cultural exchange, and economic advancement.
By joining the select ranks of cities like Monaco, Venice, and Jeddah as hosts of the world’s only all-electric powerboat series, Lagos not only gains global spotlight, but also takes a significant step in advancing conversations around sustainability and marine technology.
E1 Series CEO, Mr. Rodi Basso, revealed that Lagos triumphed over other international contenders to win hosting rights, paving the way for new investment in sports and entertainment. He also confirmed that nine elite teams—including squads led by sports icons Didier Drogba and actor Will Smith—will compete, highlighting the event’s worldwide appeal and the league’s commitment to a strong partnership with Lagos State.
Discussing the broader impact of the event, Basso remarked, “The ocean presents some of nature’s toughest challenges, pushing the boating industry to innovate and evolve. The E1 Series exemplifies technological advancement in marine environments, demonstrating how sustainable, alternative-powered craft can thrive while minimizing environmental impact.”
At the official announcement, Sam Egube, Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), emphasized that the championship will spotlight Lagos’ unique culture, vibrancy, and economic vitality to a global audience.
Egube explained that beyond its sporting significance, the E1 championship puts Lagos on the world map, reflecting Governor Sanwo-Olu’s vision of aligning the state with global efforts in sustainable transportation and energy innovation.
“As Africa’s City of Aquatic Splendour, Lagos stands as a beacon of creativity, industry, and opportunity. Hosting the E1 Lagos Grand Prix demonstrates our ability to merge speed, sustainability, and bold thinking—elevating Nigeria’s image as modern and forward-looking. It’s not just about racing; it’s about showcasing Lagos’ spirit, history, and ambition,” Egube stated.
Lagos State’s Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, also a member of the LOC, expressed excitement about the anticipated influx of visitors. She encouraged local artisans, traders, fishermen, and hospitality professionals to seize the economic opportunities that the E1 Series presents—not just for Lagos, but for Nigeria as a whole.
Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwseun Osiyemi, another LOC representative, highlighted the largely untapped possibilities of Lagos’ waterways. He remarked that the championship will inspire wider adoption of water-based transportation, easing road congestion and showcasing innovative mobility solutions.
He further revealed the launch of the Omi Eko project, which will introduce 72 electric boats to Lagos’ waterways, transforming local travel and further supporting economic and environmental goals.
Wrapping up the event, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, Special Adviser to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Media and Publicity and LOC member, affirmed the city’s readiness to host major activities that bolster its profile, generate revenue, and stimulate GDP growth for both Lagos and Nigeria at large.
