The Lagos State government will continue to showcase its economic strength using tourism, sports and entertainment to bring global investors and create employment opportunities for youths, especially as the countdown to the E1 Lagos GP, electric RaceBoat begins.
Deputy Chief of staff to the Lagos State Governor, Mr Sam Egube, who stated this at E1 Lagos GP Immersion Session at the LASWA, five cowries terminal at Falomo, ahead of the championship series coming up next month, said the event aligns with the THEMES plus agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu to ensure inclusivity and gender sensitivity.
According to the Deputy Chief of Staff, the E1 Lagos GP championship would expose Lagos to cutting edge Marine technology, boost tourism and local activities, position Lagos waterways as a major hub for innovation and sustainable transport in Africa.
It would also strengthen collaboration between regulators, operators computers and the global populace with increased understanding of climate issues, waste management and clean technology.
“The world is beginning to recognise Lagos for what it truly is—a resilient city with untapped potential. Investors see this, and that is why Lagos remains at the forefront of conversations about Africa’s future,” he said.
Mr Egube who is also the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee for the E1 Lagos GP, applauded the many sponsors who partner the state government for actualization of the all electric power BoatRace which is coming to Africa for the first time in Lagos with assurance that adequate security and crowd control mechanism have been put in place.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotosho, maintained that the E1 Lagos GP is not about the boat race alone, but using the sports to tell the resilience Lagos story to the world using Science and Technology, Innovation, which would also boost local economy with the over four hundred and fifty foreigners coming into the state to participate in the global event on October 4 and 5.
“This is more than putting race boats on the water. Everything about it requires science, careful planning, and accuracy. It shows that it is serious business for Lagos. It is about sustainability, creativity, and responsibility. Lagos is indeed the city of now and the city of the future,” he said.
“The environment is the only thing we can leave behind for the generations that are coming after us. We must not abuse it, and we must not mess it up. Our lagoons must remain clean, because visitors are coming, and they must see that Lagos values sustainability,” the Commissioner appeals.
The General Manager of the Lagos State Waterways Authority, LASWA, Mr. Damilola Emmanuel, assured participants that comprehensive measures are being put in place to guarantee smooth operations.
He explained that the Navy, Marine Police, and other security agencies are fully mobilised to ensure safety on and around the water routes.
Mr Emmanuel also revealed that shakedown sessions will precede the main event, giving competitors the opportunity to test run the waters and fine-tune their RaceBirds.
“We are prepared. This is a high-profile event, and every detail counts. From security to logistics, everything is being done to ensure that Lagos delivers a world-class experience,” he said.
Some of the sponsors said their belief in Lagos economic drive propelled them to invest in the E1 Lagos GP for sustainability which would also bring their brand visibility to the global stage.
Seven races are scheduled, with winners set to earn 25 points for first place, 15 points for second, and 10 points for third. The points system is expected to intensify the competition and keep spectators engaged throughout.
There will be viewing centres in various locations across the state for residents and fans including the Boat Club Opening Point of Contact, Wing Jetty, Mikano Building Viewing Centre, and the LASWA headquarters as each of the centres will provide access to the excitement in real time, allowing Lagosians to feel part of the global event.
During the E1 Lagos GP, over ten thousand trees will be planted, with over one hundred thousand attendees and over two hundred and fifty million social media engagements, while the nine foreign teams participating in the boat race have both genders as co-pilots in line with Lagos THEMES plus agenda.
Reporting by Yemisi Dada