Lagos to Host Africa’s First Electric Powerboat Race — E1 Series Lands in Victoria Island
History will be made this October as Lagos becomes the first African city to host the E1 Electric Powerboat Championship. The event, known as the E1 Lagos GP, will take place between October 3–5, 2025, on the waters of Victoria Island.
This places Lagos alongside iconic global waterfront cities like Monaco, Venice, and Jeddah — cities known for world-class racing and international glamour. But beyond prestige, the race symbolises Lagos’ commitment to clean energy, sustainability, and innovation in water transport.
Why This Matters for Lagos
The E1 Lagos GP is more than sport. It’s a platform to:
- Boost tourism and global visibility.
- Showcase Lagos’ culture, creativity, and commercial strength.
- Advance conversations on climate action and sustainable energy.
- Encourage the use of electric boats and reduce road congestion.
With over 250 international sports personalities expected, including teams backed by Didier Drogba and Will Smith, Lagos is preparing to welcome the world.
Voices from the Organisers
Rodi Basso, CEO of the E1 Series, praised Lagos’ determination to win the hosting rights:
“The E1 Series showcases not only the technical prowess of the marine industry but also how sustainability can drive innovation. Lagos is the perfect stage for this evolution.”
For Sam Egube, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the race is about more than speed:
“This is proof of Lagos’ capacity as a hub of commerce and creativity. The event merges speed, sustainability, and innovation while placing Lagos firmly on the global map.”
Economic and Social Impact
- Tourism: The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, said the influx of visitors would boost hotels, restaurants, artisans, and traders.
- Transportation: Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwseun Osiyemi, revealed that the Omi Eko project will soon launch 72 electric boats, easing road traffic and modernising Lagos’ waterways.
- Economy: Special Adviser Gboyega Akosile noted that the championship aligns with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ agenda, strengthening Lagos’ GDP and investment appeal.
Lagos Racing Into the Future
As the City of Aquatic Splendour, Lagos is not just hosting a race — it is declaring its place in the global future of clean energy, technology-driven sports, and cultural exchange.
The countdown has begun. From October 3–5, 2025, Lagos will not only host Africa’s first all-electric boat race but will also tell the world: “We are ready. We are racing for the future — for Africa, for the world.”
