The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Friday led prominent figures from the worlds of government, business, and sports to the opening ceremony of the E1 Lagos Grand Prix (E1 Lagos GP) in Victoria Island.
The high-profile event, which marked a milestone in bringing the global electric powerboat racing series to Africa’s commercial hub, was attended by Ivorian football legend and co-owner of Team Drogba Global Africa, Didier Drogba, alongside his partner, Gabrielle Lemaire.
Sanwo-Olu, who hailed the championship as a boost to Lagos’ tourism and blue economy, was joined at the ceremony by top dignitaries including:
Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Deputy Governor of Lagos State
Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment
Alejandro Agag, Founder and Chairman of Formula E
Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu, Managing Director of FirstBank
Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts & Culture
Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, Commissioner for Transportation
Mr. Sam Egube, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC)
Also in attendance were notable figures from the political and business communities, including Mr. Seyi Tinubu, APC Lagos Chairman Hon. Cornelius Ojetola, Barr. ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Lagos State Secretary to the Government, and members of the Lagos State Executive Council.
The opening ceremony featured vibrant cultural displays, team presentations, and the unveiling of the boats that will compete in the championship. Speaking at the event, Governor Sanwo-Olu underscored Lagos’ commitment to positioning itself as a global sports and tourism destination.
“Hosting the E1 Lagos GP reflects our drive to integrate innovation, sustainability, and sports into the growth of our economy. This event puts Lagos on the map of pioneering cities embracing clean energy-powered water sports,” the Governor said.
Drogba, expressing his excitement, described Lagos as “the perfect stage for the future of water racing in Africa,” adding that his team was eager to inspire young Africans to pursue innovation in sports and sustainability.
The E1 Lagos GP is part of the international electric powerboat racing series designed to promote clean energy solutions and marine environmental protection.
The weekend-long competition is expected to attract thousands of fans, boost local businesses, and further position Lagos as a leading destination for international sporting events.
