Why we chose Lagos for Africa’s first E1 race – Basso News

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Why we chose Lagos for Africa’s first E1 race – Basso

By Daily Sports Nigeria on September 8, 2025

The Chief Executive Officer of the E1 boat racing series, Rodi Basso, has revealed that the Lagos State Government’s commitment to clean energy and climate action sets them apart to be part of the second season of the series, as Nigeria hosts Africa’s first E1 race from October 3 to 5, The PUNCH reports.

With its debut in Jeddah last year, the E1 is an all-electric international offshore powerboat racing series which is competed by nine teams across selected cities in different countries.

Some of the teams are owned by sports personalities, including Ivory Coast legend Didier Drogba, Rafael Nadal and NBA stars LeBron James.

Basso, who was in Lagos last week, revealed that the state’s sustainability agenda aligns with E1’s vision.

“We found in Lagos an amazing partnership and incredible alignment of high-level vision, so we are privileged to be a part of the compelling vision that people here have tried to drive. Sports is an amazing way to drive the change to protect the coastal areas. It’s an incredible source of inspiration and relaxation,” Basso told The PUNCH.

“The E1 Series showcases the technical prowess behind such important developments in the marine industry, but also how boats can become more sustainable by leveraging alternative power and unique architecture to minimise their impact in the most challenging scenarios.”

Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu first announced the historic event during the Monaco GP in July.

Lagos GP is expected to bring over 250 global sports personalities together in Nigeria’s commercial city next month.

During a press conference last week, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and Deputy Chief of Staff to Lagos State Governor, Mr Sam Egube, said the landmark event will serve as a global showcase for Lagos’ culture, energy, and economic potential.

“This is an opportunity to show the world what makes Lagos special: the cultural heritage and energy of Lagos people. It is also an opportunity to welcome tourists and investors and share Lagos success stories to bring in more investment and highlight the potential of the city of aquatic splendour. History is happening here. Lagos is racing for the future, for Africa, for the world,” he said.

A member of the LOC and Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, expressed optimism that the influx of tourists into the state during the E1 championship would boost the local economy, urged artisans, traders, fishermen, and those in the hospitality industry to tap into the opportunity for economic development of the state and Nigeria at large.

The Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwseun Osiyemi, who is also a member of the Local Organising Committee, also disclosed that the Omi Eko project, which will unveil 72 electric boats on Lagos waterways, will boost water transportation and reduce congestion on the road.

The Special Adviser to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Media and Publicity and member of LOC, Mr Gboyega Akosile, said Lagos is ever ready for activities that will spotlight it to generate revenue and increase its Gross Domestic Product and that of the country at large.

Source Punch Ng

Posted September 8, 2025