Lagos, Nigeria, recently made history by hosting the inaugural E1 Lagos Grand Prix, the first-ever electric powerboat race held on the African continent. This landmark three-day event, which unfolded on the Lagos Lagoon near the iconic Oriental Hotel waterfront, brought together a dazzling array of international stars, local dignitaries, and creative talents, solidifying Lagos’s position on the global sporting and cultural map.

The E1 Lagos Grand Prix, part of the prestigious global UIM E1 World Championship, commenced with an vibrant opening ceremony on Friday, followed by two days of electrifying races. Saturday saw teams battling through qualifying rounds to secure their starting positions, while Sunday drew massive crowds for the final showdown. Beyond the thrilling competition, the event was a multifaceted celebration of sport, lifestyle, and innovation, featuring diverse attractions such as music, gourmet food, captivating art showcases, and immersive fan experiences, all underscoring themes of sustainability.

The event was graced by numerous high-profile personalities. Football legend Didier Drogba, co-owner of Team Drogba Global Africa, was a prominent figure, having arrived in Lagos days prior and actively engaging with the city and its culture. He was joined by Haitian-American singer Wyclef Jean, and both were frequently seen at the event venue and other activities throughout the race weekend. Other international team owners included Indian cricketer Virat Kohli (Team Blue Rising), Rafael Nadal (Team Rafa), and Tom Brady (Team Brady). On the local front, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu led a contingent of Nigerian officials, including the Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa. Renowned filmmaker Bolanle Austen-Peters, comedian Gbenga Adeyinka, actor Segun Arinze, and former BBNaija housemates Chinwe and Prince were also among the creatives and enthusiasts who added to the lively atmosphere.

FirstBank of Nigeria played a pivotal role as the Presenting Partner of the E1 Lagos Grand Prix. As explained by Olayinka Ijabiyi, Acting Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank, this partnership perfectly aligned with the bank’s enduring legacy of innovation, sustainability, and national development. FirstBank leveraged its long-standing First@Sports initiative and its DecemberIssaVybe campaign to underscore Lagos's capability to host world-class, sustainable sporting, tourism, and lifestyle events.

Despite a brief delay caused by a tropical storm, the races delivered high-octane excitement. In the final, Team Brazil, expertly piloted by Timmy Hansen and Ieva Millere-Hagin, emerged victorious, securing 38 points in Lagos and boosting their season total to 89. Team Blue Rising, owned by Virat Kohli, clinched a commendable second place, while Team Drogba Global Africa, co-owned by Didier Drogba, finished third. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu personally presented trophies to the triumphant teams, hailing the event as concrete proof of Lagos’s ability to host world-class sustainable sporting activities.

The E1 Lagos Grand Prix was more than just a race; it was a powerful platform for cultural exchange and environmental advocacy. International and national beauty queens, who arrived in Lagos for the E1 Championship Fashion Showcase X Experience Lagos 2025 VIP Humanitourism Campaign, participated in fashion showcases and humanitarian engagements. Their presence, aligned with the E1’s sustainability mission, promoted environmental awareness, tourism, and cultural exchange. Governor Sanwo-Olu also received Wyclef Jean, Miss Earth, and Miss Earth-Water winners at Lagos House, Marina, noting that their visit reflected the city’s growing connection to art, culture, and environmental consciousness.

Reflecting on the event’s success, Governor Sanwo-Olu remarked, “This is Lagos showing that we can host global, innovative events that promote sustainability and create opportunities for our people.” Local attendees echoed these sentiments. Former BBNaija housemate Chinwe expressed immense pride in Nigeria hosting the first E1 race in Africa, stating, “It shows why we are the giants of Africa.” Actor Michael Ejoor lauded the innovation, adding, “There’s something special about being the first to do it. There’s nothing the entertainment industry cannot merge with – we’ll always find a way.” With the successful conclusion of the Lagos Grand Prix, attention now shifts to Miami, USA, for the grand season finale of the UIM E1 World Championship.