Why Lagos Was Picked for Africa’s First E1 Race – Basso

The Chief Executive Officer of the E1 powerboat racing series, Rodi Basso, says Lagos stood out as the perfect African host for the competition because of the state government’s strong commitment to clean energy and climate action.

Nigeria’s commercial capital will welcome the groundbreaking event from October 3 to 5, marking the first time the all-electric offshore powerboat race will be staged on the continent.

The E1 series, which made its debut in Jeddah last year, features nine international teams competing in different host cities around the world. Several of these teams are backed by global sports icons, including Ivorian football legend Didier Drogba, tennis superstar Rafael Nadal, and NBA great LeBron James.

Speaking during his visit to Lagos last week, Basso said the city’s sustainability agenda and progressive vision align with E1’s mission.

“We found in Lagos an incredible partnership and a shared long-term vision. Sports is an extraordinary platform to inspire action and protect our coastal areas. The E1 series highlights both technological innovation in the marine sector and how sustainable boats can operate effectively under demanding conditions,” he explained.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, first unveiled the historic race during the Monaco Grand Prix in July. The event is expected to attract more than 250 international sports personalities and stakeholders to Lagos.

At a press briefing, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Sam Egube, said the championship would be a unique opportunity to showcase Lagos’ cultural vibrancy, energy, and economic potential.

“This is a moment to tell the Lagos story to the world — our heritage, our resilience, and our vision for the future. It is not just about sport; it is about tourism, investment, and putting Lagos on the global stage,” Egube said.

The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, added that the influx of visitors would boost the local economy, urging artisans, traders, and hospitality operators to take advantage of the opportunities the event will create.

Similarly, the Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, disclosed that the state will roll out the Omi Eko project, which includes 72 new electric boats to enhance water transportation and ease traffic congestion on Lagos roads.

Gboyega Akosile, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media and another member of the LOC, stressed that Lagos is always open to global events that can generate revenue, stimulate tourism, and further expand both the state and national economy.