- President Tinubu hailed Lagos for hosting Africa’s first E1 electric powerboat race, calling it a milestone for clean energy, marine innovation, and Nigeria’s blue economy.
- Governor Sanwo-Olu said the E1 Lagos Grand Prix showcases Lagos’ dynamism, sustainability drive, and capacity to host global events.
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to clean energy and marine innovation as Lagos hosted Africa’s first-ever E1 electric powerboat race on Friday, October 3.
In a goodwill message released by Lagos State’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, Tinubu congratulated Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and event sponsors for bringing the championship to Nigeria and described it as a historic step for clean energy and maritime technology.
Tinubu noted that Lagos had joined Monaco, London, Jeddah, and Venice on the global E1 championship calendar. “This championship is not merely a thrilling spectacle on water but a statement of intent,” he said. “The E1 Powerboat series combines world-class entertainment with clean energy innovation, showcasing electric-powered vessels that point the way to a greener and more sustainable future.”
The President linked the event to his administration’s blue economy vision, emphasising his commitment to building prosperity through renewable energy, marine tourism, and coastal infrastructure. “By investing in our coastal infrastructure, marine tourism, and renewable energy, we create jobs, open new opportunities for youth, and strengthen Nigeria’s place in the global community,” he stated.
Meanwhile, describing himself as a “proud Lagosian,” Tinubu praised Lagos as the ideal host city for the E1 championship. “Lagos, the cultural capital of Nigeria, the heartbeat of our economy, and a symbol of our resilience, is the perfect host. Its vibrant waterways and dynamic people embody the spirit of competition, creativity, and hospitality,” he said.
He also commended Governor Sanwo-Olu and the event sponsors for their vision and dedication to delivering the championship.
At the opening ceremony held at the Lagos Boat Club in Ikoyi, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu revealed that President Tinubu, who was in Lagos, had expressed excitement about the event and planned to watch the final race on Sunday, October 5, from his Ikoyi residence.
In addition, the opening day featured a boat regatta led by Sanwo-Olu and state officials, followed by shakedown runs by competing teams ahead of the weekend’s races.
Furthermore, Sanwo-Olu described the event as celebrating Lagos’ growing global influence and commitment to sustainability. “For us in Lagos, the E1 Lagos GP, the first to be held in Africa, is a befitting accolade to a sports-loving people and a government that values sports as a tool for human development,” he said. “E1 Lagos GP is more than a race; it is a celebration of Lagos’ dynamism, the Spirit of Lagos, and a vivid testimony of our expanding influence and energy.”