The Lagos State Government says it is committed to using the E1 Lagos GP Series One race to build a climate change ecosystem.
The state said the ecosystem will create leaders in economy, entertainment, innovation and technology while providing an electrifying environment.
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu said this at the E1 Lagos GP, African Blue Economy Summit 1 Lagos 2025 with the theme: “Harnessing Africa’s Blue Natural Capital for Sustainable Growth”, held at Eko Atlantic City, Victoria Island.
Sanwo-Olu said the state is proud to be part of the event, which he described as an economic springboard to deliver concrete pathways for transforming Africa’s ocean and freshwater resources into sustainable engines for growth.
“This is more than just a race. Lagos is using this platform to position itself at the forefront of the blue economy.
“We want to create an ecosystem that is bold, resilient and capable of shaping leaders in technology, entertainment and economic innovation,” he said.
The Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, reaffirmed the state’s resolve to tap opportunities in the waterways, noting that the initiative is a unique platform for harnessing strategic investment and advancing a sustainable maritime sector.
“Our commitment is collective. We are building an avenue to design an environment for a united future.
”Investment in water transport infrastructure will unlock opportunities, create jobs, and strengthen our capacity to compete globally,” Osiyemi said.
President of Didier Drogba Foundation, Mr Didier Drogba, lauded the initiative, saying that it is symbolic that Nigeria is hosting the first series of the E1 race in Africa.
“The blue economy summit is not just a meeting, it is a question of survival. Seeing the E1 team in Nigeria shows how sport, technology and innovation can come together for transformation.
“This is about ensuring that our youths can protect, innovate, thrive and align their future with the global economy,” Drogba said.
Co-Founder and Chairman of E1 Series, Mr Alejandro Agag, said the Lagos GP would mark the beginning of great developments in Nigeria, urging the state government to sustain its support for at least, the next five years.
“What we have seen here is impressive. The efficiency of the Lagos team shows that this is just the beginning of greater things to come.
“With sustained government support, the E1 Lagos GP can become a model for Africa and the world,” Agag said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the summit featured key stakeholders, including the Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change, Dr Omotenioye Majekodunmi.
Sanwo-Olu, who is the Chief Host, also declared open the E1 Lagos GP and the Seabird Parade and Regatta held at the Lagos Motor Boat Club, Onikan.
