‘E1 Lagos GP, display of international attention’ — Lagos state govt declares

The Lagos State Government has reiterated its dedication to presenting Lagos as a center of resilience, opportunity, and enterprise, with international attention turning to its waterways as the city prepares to host the E1 Lagos GP from October 3 to 5 in Victoria Island.

At the E1 Lagos GP Immersion Session, which took place at the LASWA Boat Jetty in Falomo, the State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, characterized Lagos as a city of strength and innovation that continually evolves and attracts global interest.

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He emphasized that the upcoming E1 Lagos GP is more than just a sports event; it serves as a scientific showcase of precision, accuracy, and sustainability, noting that the buzz surrounding the event highlights Lagos’ creativity and potential. The Commissioner encouraged residents of Lagos to seize the opportunities that this water-based sporting occasion will present. “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.

Omotoso, while emphasising the need for Lagos residents to take ownership of their environment, 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,” the commissioner advised.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Mr Sam Egube, who highlighted the global significance of the E1 Lagos GP, said Lagos is fast becoming Africa’s hub for technology, culture, and enterprise.

Egube, who is the Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, noted that the event offers Lagos an opportunity to showcase its readiness to host world-class experiences, adding that beyond the competition, the city is positioning itself as a top destination for innovation and cultural diplomacy.

The General Manager of the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), Mr Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, assured participants that comprehensive measures are being put in place to guarantee smooth operations.

He explained that the Navy, Marine Police, and other security agencies are fully mobilised to ensure safety on and around the water routes.

Emmanuel also revealed that “shakedown sessions” will precede the main event, giving competitors the opportunity to test the waters and fine-tune their boats.

Speaking at the event, corporate partners, which included First Bank of Nigeria and Tolaram Group, among others, threw their weight behind the project, describing the E1 Lagos GP as a historic first for Africa.

They said they are proud to be part of the groundbreaking journey, which, according to them, is historic not only for Lagos but for the entire continent.

The E1 Lagos GP is not just about electric boats on the lagoon; it is about Lagos’ enduring spirit of resilience and enterprise. Seven races are scheduled, with winners set to earn 25 points for first place, 15 points for second, and 10 points for third. The points system is expected to intensify the competition and keep spectators engaged throughout.

Residents and fans who cannot be on the water can catch the action live at various viewing centres, including the Boat Club Opening Point of Contact, Wing Jetty, Mikano Building Viewing Centre, and the LASWA headquarters. Each of the centres will provide access to the excitement in real time, allowing Lagosians to feel part of the global event.