First Bank Powers E1 Lagos GP, Africa’s Historic Electric Boat Race

The Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the E1 Lagos Grand Prix (GP) has officially unveiled its sponsorship lineup for Africa’s first-ever all-electric powerboat race, scheduled to make history on the Lagos Lagoon from October 2–5, 2025.

The announcement was made at a Stakeholder Immersion Session in Lagos, bringing together sponsors, media, influencers, and partners to align on the event’s identity, communication standards, and positioning. The session highlighted Lagos’ preparedness to host the landmark event and underscored the global significance of the E1 Series.

Strong Corporate Backing for Innovation and Legacy

First Bank of Nigeria was revealed as the Presenting Partner of the E1 Lagos GP, leading a distinguished sponsorship lineup that also includes Oando, Spiro, Sunbeth, and Tolaram Group—with premium brands such as Guinness Stout, Johnnie Walker, and The Singleton.

Mr. Samuel Egube, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Lagos State Governor and Chairman of the E1 Lagos GP LOC, said the sponsorship commitments represent more than financial support—they signal trust in Lagos’ vision:

“Today marks not only an affirmation of our sponsors’ commitment, but a promise that we will uphold clarity, professionalism, and integrity in how Lagos tells its story on the global stage. We are proud to stand with First Bank as our Presenting Partner, and with all our partners who share in our vision for sport, innovation, and legacy.”

Lagos Positions Itself as Africa’s Innovation Hub

Honourable Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotosho, stressed that the E1 Lagos GP transcends sports:

“The E1 Lagos GP is more than a sporting event; it is a statement of Lagos’ readiness to lead Africa into a sustainable future, where innovation and culture meet global standards. Our responsibility is to ensure that the people, the media, and all partners tell this story with one voice.”

First Bank Champions Innovation and Sustainability

Speaking on the bank’s role, Mr. Olayinka Ijabiyi, Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at First Bank of Nigeria, reaffirmed the institution’s alignment with the values of the E1 GP:

“First Bank is honoured to take its place as the Presenting Partner of the E1 Lagos GP. Our heritage of over 130 years in supporting innovation and development in Nigeria aligns perfectly with this groundbreaking event. We are delighted to support a project that not only showcases sport at its finest but also emphasizes sustainability and youth engagement.”

Setting the Benchmark for Sports and Sustainability

The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) also presented safety protocols, while communications agency Teksight Edge provided guidance on brand use and storytelling to ensure unified messaging across all platforms.

With strong corporate partnerships and stakeholder alignment, the E1 Lagos GP is on course to set a new benchmark in sports, sustainability, and global event hosting. The historic race will not only spotlight Lagos as Africa’s cultural and commercial hub but also reinforce its reputation as a city ready to embrace innovation on the world stage.

E1 Lagos GP has unveiled its sponsorship lineup for Africa’s first electric powerboat race, with First Bank of Nigeria as Presenting Partner. The event, set for October 2–5, 2025, positions Lagos as a hub for innovation, sustainability, and global sports excellence.