Features Nigeria Tourism News Lagos to Host Africa’s First E1 Electric Powerboat Championship in October Familugba VictorSeptember 4, 20250877 views Lagos State Government is preparing to host the first-ever E1 Electric Powerboat Championship in Africa, which will take place from October 3 to 5. Organisers and the Lagos State Government promise a world-class spectacle designed to highlight Nigeria’s commercial capital as a hub for tourism, innovation, and sustainability. The landmark event, dubbed the E1 Lagos GP, will bring together over 250 sports personalities and nine international teams, including those supported by global icons Didier Drogba and Will Smith. This marks the first time the world’s only all-electric powerboat championship will take place in African waters, positioning Lagos alongside prestigious global host cities like Monaco, Venice, and Jeddah. At a press conference on Monday, E1 Series CEO Rodi Basso announced that Lagos had secured the hosting rights after a competitive bid against several other world-class cities. He described the decision as “a major milestone for sport, sustainability, and commerce in Africa.” READ MORE Lagos Launches Three-Day Cultural Weekend to Enhance Tourism, Economic Growth Travellers Award 2024/2025: Keyamo, Oyebanji, Others Honoured in Tourism & Aviation Lagos Launches Three-Day Cultural Weekend to Enhance Tourism, Economic Growth “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 never seen 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 the global sports and entertainment sector. 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 Africa’s investment capital. Showcase Nigeria Through Your Lens – Join Our Open Call for Creators Are you a photographer, videographer, or content creator passionate about capturing Nigeria’s beauty, from fashion runways and cultural festivals to tourist landmarks and local events? Our Open Call for Content Creators in Nigeria is your opportunity to get featured, collaborate, and bring authentic Nigerian stories to life. Whether you’re into travel, lifestyle, or visual storytelling, we want to see Nigeria through your eyes. Stay updated with the latest tourism news in Nigeria and beyond, featuring cultural festivals, travel updates, destination highlights, and insights that shape Africa’s growing tourism industry. Frequently Asked Questions & Answers (FAQs) What is the E1 Lagos GP? The E1 Lagos GP is Africa’s first-ever E1 Electric Powerboat Championship, a global event featuring the world’s only all-electric powerboat racing series. It will take place in Lagos, Nigeria. When is the event scheduled? The E1 Lagos GP is scheduled to be held between October 3 and 5, 2025. Who will be participating in the championship? The event will feature nine international teams, including those supported by prominent figures such as former footballer Didier Drogba and actor Will Smith. Over 250 sports personalities are expected to attend. Why is this event significant for Lagos? The championship positions Lagos as a significant global hub for tourism, innovation, and sustainability, alongside other host cities like Monaco and Venice. It is expected to boost the local economy, attract international investment, and showcase the city’s capacity to host world-class events. How does this event align with the Lagos State Government’s objectives? The event aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ agenda by promoting sustainability, innovation in marine transport, and climate action. It also complements the government’s plan to launch the “Omi Eko Project,” a fleet of 72 electric boats aimed at improving public transportation on the state’s waterways.