Lagos, Nigeria, recently made history by hosting the E1 Lagos Grand Prix, Africa’s inaugural all-electric powerboat race. This landmark event, a fusion of high-octane sport, vibrant culture, and a commitment to sustainability, captivated global attention, transforming the city’s waterfront into a hub of innovation and excitement. With FirstBank leading as a major sponsor, the championship highlighted Lagos’s readiness to champion futuristic sports while strengthening its burgeoning blue economy.

The historic championship kicked off on Friday at the Boat Club in Ikoyi, with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu welcoming participants and attendees. The opening ceremony featured a colorful parade of competing teams, rich cultural displays, and the official unveiling of the RaceBird electric boats, central to the E1 Series’ zero-emission ethos. Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the event transcended racing, representing creativity, sustainability, and global competitiveness, and expressed Lagos’s ambition to host more international sporting events, including Formula 1. He projected that the Grand Prix would create jobs, inspire young people, and further bolster the state’s blue economy.

Day one of the races on Saturday brought an electrifying carnival atmosphere. Fans, dignitaries, and sports enthusiasts gathered to witness the RaceBird electric boats glide across the lagoon. Beyond thrilling qualifying races, the onshore experience celebrated Lagosian lifestyle and culture. The “Lagos Market” and pop-up stalls offered local delicacies such as jollof rice, fried rice, chicken, porridge, and small chops, alongside a variety of beverages. Music, games, and an engaging MC kept energy levels high, culminating in a memorable fan moment with Ivorian football legend Didier Drogba, one of the celebrity guests.

Key figures shared their perspectives on the monumental event. Didier Drogba expressed pride, noting that bringing the E1 race to Africa had always been a dream, and Nigeria had proven its capability. John Marlow, co-team principal of Team Alula (co-owned by LeBron James), lauded Lagos as a global sporting destination, praising the historic nature of the debut. Alejandro Agag, co-founder of the E1 Series, applauded Lagos’s efficiency in hosting the race and called for sustained support to maintain it in Nigeria for the next five years.

During a panel session, Adebukola Agbaminoja and Osahon Akpata discussed how sports shape culture and community in Africa. Professor Akin Abayomi, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, assured fans and participants of top-level safety protocols, with medical teams and rapid response units deployed throughout the event.

FirstBank’s sponsorship reinforced its dedication to initiatives promoting innovation, sustainability, and community engagement. The bank celebrated supporting an event that brings the world’s first electric powerboat championship to Africa while showcasing the unstoppable Vybes of Lagos to the global stage. The Grand Prix also coincided with the African Blue Economy Summit at Eko Atlantic City, where Governor Sanwo-Olu outlined Lagos’s long-term plans for innovation, water transport, and climate resilience.

As the day’s races concluded, a DJ kept the festivities alive, spinning Afrobeat and dance anthems, ensuring the vibrant spirit continued well into the evening. The E1 Lagos Grand Prix has firmly established itself as a benchmark for sport, culture, and sustainable development in Africa.