The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to showcasing the state as a hub of resilience, opportunity, and enterprise, with global attention set to focus on its waterways as the city hosts the E1 Lagos GP from October 3 to 5 in Victoria Island.
Speaking at the E1 Lagos GP Immersion Session, held at the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) Boat Jetty at Falomo in Ikoyi, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, described Lagos as a city of strength and innovation. He explained that Lagos continues to reinvent itself and attract international recognition.
He noted that the upcoming E1 Lagos GP is not just another sporting event but a scientific demonstration of precision, accuracy, and sustainability. According to him, the excitement already building around the event highlights Lagos’ creativity and potential. Omotoso urged residents to embrace the opportunities the water-based sporting event would bring.
“This is more than putting race boats on the water. Everything about it requires science, careful planning, and accuracy. It shows that it is serious business for Lagos. It is about sustainability, creativity, and responsibility. Lagos is indeed the city of now and the city of the future,” he said.
The commissioner also emphasised the importance of environmental protection. He said, “The environment is the only thing we can leave behind for the generations that are coming after us. We must not abuse it, and we must not mess it up. Our lagoons must remain clean, because visitors are coming, and they must see that Lagos values sustainability.”
Also speaking at the session, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Mr Sam Egube, stressed the global significance of the E1 Lagos GP. He described Lagos as Africa’s hub for technology, culture, and enterprise, adding that the event provides an opportunity to demonstrate the city’s capacity to host world-class experiences.
Egube noted that beyond the race, Lagos is positioning itself as a destination for innovation and cultural diplomacy. He said the competition reflects the forward-looking vision of the state and its commitment to strengthening international partnerships.
The General Manager of LASWA, Mr Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, assured participants that the government is putting comprehensive measures in place to guarantee smooth operations during the event. He explained that the Nigerian Navy, Marine Police, and other security agencies have been fully mobilised to ensure safety on and around the waterways.
Emmanuel further revealed that shakedown sessions would precede the main competition. He said the sessions would allow competitors to test the waters and fine-tune their electric race boats ahead of the event.
Corporate partners including First Bank of Nigeria and Tolaram Group expressed strong support for the project. They described the E1 Lagos GP as a historic first for Africa, noting that it would place Lagos firmly on the global sporting and innovation map. According to them, they are proud to be part of what they see as a groundbreaking journey that will benefit not only Lagos but the entire continent.
The organisers explained that the E1 Lagos GP goes beyond electric boats racing across the lagoon. It represents Lagos’ enduring spirit of resilience, sustainability, and enterprise. Seven races have been scheduled for the event, with winners expected to earn 25 points for first place, 15 points for second, and 10 points for third. The points system is designed to intensify competition and keep spectators fully engaged.
For residents and fans unable to be on the water, several viewing centres will provide live coverage of the event. These include the Boat Club Opening Point of Contact, Wing Jetty, Mikano Building Viewing Centre, and the LASWA headquarters. The centres will enable Lagosians to follow the excitement in real time and be part of an event that is attracting global attention.
