On October 4 and 5, 2025, Lagos State will host Africa’s first-ever E1 Series electric boat racing championship, setting the stage for history.
According to Arise TV, Rodi Basso, the CEO of the E1 Series, hailed Lagos’ successful candidacy during a news conference on Monday, highlighting the milestone in the face of fierce competition from elite cities.
Basso discussed how the boating sector is changing and called the accomplishment “a major milestone for sport, sustainability, and commerce in Africa.”
“The boating business is evolving despite the ocean being one of nature’s most difficult settings. Organizations need to rethink and innovate in previously unheard-of ways in order to overcome current obstacles.
“By utilizing alternative power and distinctive architecture, the E1 Series demonstrates technical mastery and demonstrates that boats can become more sustainable,” he said.
In addition to preserving this technologically advanced sport, the collaboration with the Lagos State Government is expected to draw substantial investment to the international sports and entertainment industries.
Sam Egube, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s deputy chief of staff and chairman of the local organizing committee, was upbeat about the event’s ability to highlight Lagos’ economic potential and cultural vibrancy.
“For Lagos, the City of Aquatic Splendour, this is proof of capacity. We are hosting an event that merges speed, sustainability, and innovation. It signifies economic opportunities, tourism expansion, and global prestige,” Egube declared.
This championship aligns strongly with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s dedication to sustainability, marine transport innovation, and global climate action.
“Here, history is being made. Egube continued, “Lagos is racing for the future, for Africa, for the world.”
Toke Benson-Awoyinka, the commissioner for tourism, arts, and culture, encouraged local traders, artists, fishers, and the hotel sector to take use of the event’s economic potential.
Oluwaseun Osiyemi, the Transportation Commissioner, gave a preview of the Omi Eko Project, which would use 72 electric boats to reduce traffic and support environmental initiatives by providing an alternate mode of transportation.
Under the THEMES+ development program, Lagos’ preparedness to host international events that highlight the city, generate income, and increase the state’s GDP was reiterated by Gboyega Akosile, the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity. The E1 Series was also praised by seasoned sports journalists as a revolutionary event that will solidify Lagos’ position on the world stage for both investment and sports.
Remember on July 20? The governor shared his first-hand experience at a recent E1 event in Monaco via his X account, applauding the way that bold ideas and innovation come together to create revolutionary athletic events.
Hosting the tournament, Sanwo-Olu emphasized, demonstrates Lagos’ willingness to participate in international discussions on sustainable development, clean energy, and cutting-edge marine transportation.
He also emphasized the event’s wider cultural and economic significance as a means of showcasing Lagos’ distinct vitality and attracting tourists from abroad, ushering in a new era for the city’s international reputation.
