Waves of Innovation: First Bank Powers Lagos’ Transformation into Africa’s Electric Playground

Waves of Innovation: First Bank Powers Lagos’ Transformation into Africa’s Electric Playground

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Lagos, Nigeria – The Lagos Lagoon shimmered in electric hues as powerboats raced across its surface during the continent’s first-ever E1 Lagos Grand Prix, held from Saturday, October 4 to Sunday, October 5. The event, powered by First Bank of Nigeria, transformed the city into Africa’s capital of clean energy, innovation, and excitement.

From the rhythmic pulse of Afrobeats along the Marina to the sleek, futuristic boats gliding silently over the water, the E1 Lagos Grand Prix was more than a sporting competition — it was a celebration of Lagos’ vibrant spirit and Nigeria’s growing commitment to sustainability.

In a goodwill message, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu hailed the championship as a landmark moment for Nigeria and Lagos. He praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, First Bank, and other partners for delivering a world-class spectacle that placed Nigeria at the forefront of clean-energy innovation.

“The E1 Powerboat Series combines world-class entertainment with clean energy technology. It is not just a thrilling spectacle but a commitment to a greener and more sustainable future,” the President said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who led the regatta at the opening ceremony, described the event as a proud milestone for Lagos and a reflection of its global potential.

“The E1 Lagos GP is more than a race — it is a celebration of the Spirit of Lagos,” he said. “It showcases our ability to host world-class events while advancing our sustainability agenda.”

Throughout the weekend, crowds thronged the waterfront and fan zones, enjoying music, fashion, food, and interactive experiences. Among the high-profile guests was football legend Didier Drogba, co-owner of Team Drogba Global Africa, whose presence added celebrity flair to the spectacle.

For First Bank of Nigeria, the event marked yet another chapter in its 131-year legacy of innovation and excellence. Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Olayinka Ijabiyi, said the sponsorship reflected the bank’s enduring commitment to progress and sustainability.

“Innovation, sustainability, excitement, speed — these define who we are,” Ijabiyi stated. “When the opportunity to bring the E1 GP to Africa arose, it was only fitting that First Bank led the charge. We are proud to have presented Lagos and Nigeria to the world.”

At the First Bank Pavilion, visitors experienced interactive exhibitions, product showcases, and lifestyle engagements that blended technology, culture, and creativity — hallmarks of the bank’s brand identity.

“This race is a net-zero emitter,” Ijabiyi added. “We are deeply committed to supporting a cleaner, greener future. This is innovation meeting responsibility.”

The partnership also aligns with the bank’s #FirstBankDecemberIssaVybe series — its annual celebration of entertainment, culture, and lifestyle that enlivens the festive season.

“This is just a taste of what’s to come,” Ijabiyi teased. “December will be about fun, fashion, food, and unforgettable experiences.”

The grand finale on Sunday was electrifying as Team Brazil clinched victory, with pilots Timmy Hansen and Leva Millere-Hagin powering their electric boat to triumph ahead of Team Blue Rising and Team Drogba Global Africa.

As dusk fell over the lagoon, the waterfront sparkled with lights and cheers — a reflection of Lagos at its finest: energetic, innovative, and unrelentingly ambitious.

For many Lagosians, the event cemented First Bank’s reputation as more than a financial institution.

“I grew up knowing First Bank as the reliable one,” said Latoya Johnson, a spectator. “Seeing them behind something this big makes me proud. They’re not just banking our money — they’re banking our future.”

From clean energy to cultural celebration, from racing boats to smiling faces, the E1 Lagos Grand Prix underscored one truth: when innovation meets tradition, Lagos shines — and First Bank leads the way.