The Lagos Lagoon shimmered in electric hues as powerboats, propelled not by fuel but clean energy, raced across its surface. ushering in a new era for sports, sustainability, and spectacle in Africa. From October 3 to 5, Lagos transformed into the continent’s electric playground, hosting the first-ever E1 Lagos Grand Prix, proudly powered by First Bank of Nigeria.
For two exhilarating days, Victoria Island’s waterfront pulsed with life, Afrobeats rhythms filled the air, fans thronged the Marina, and the sleek, futuristic powerboats carved luminous trails across the water. It was a fusion of innovation, culture, and environmental consciousness, positioning Lagos as Africa’s hub of clean-energy entertainment.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a goodwill message, praised the event as a bold step toward Nigeria’s sustainable future, commending Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, First Bank, and other partners for delivering a world-class spectacle.
“The E1 Powerboat Series combines world-class entertainment with clean energy innovation.This championship is not just a thrilling spectacle on water but a commitment to a greener and more sustainable future”, the President said.
Tinubu described Lagos as “a gateway to innovation, technology, and global sporting excellence,” affirming Nigeria’s readiness to lead Africa’s transition to clean energy.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who led the colourful regatta that opened the championship, called it a proud moment for Lagos.
“E1 Lagos GP is more than a race; it is a celebration of Lagos’ dynamism—the Spirit of Lagos. It shows our capacity to host world-class events and underscores our commitment to sustainability,” the governor declared.
The event drew thousands of fans, global investors, and sporting legends, including Didier Drogba, co-owner of Team Drogba Global Africa, whose presence added a touch of star power to the weekend.
For First Bank of Nigeria, the historic sponsorship underscored its 131-year heritage of innovation and renewal. Acting Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, Olayinka Ijabiyi, said the bank’s involvement reflected its forward-looking vision.
“Innovation, sustainability, excitement, speed, these define us.When the opportunity came, who else could bring the first E1 GP to Nigeria but First Bank? We are proud to have presented Lagos and Nigeria to the world”, Ijabiyi noted.
