Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), has lauded the Lagos State Government for elevating the city to a premier global destination by hosting the inaugural E1 Series, the world’s pioneering electric powerboat racing championship.
The groundbreaking competition took place from October 3 to 5, 2025, at the Black Diamond Hotel on Victoria Island, Lagos. It attracted E1 racing teams, influential business figures, government representatives, and international sports personalities, marking the first time the series was held on African waters.
During the event, Pololikashvili expressed his enthusiasm about Africa’s expanding footprint in international sports. “Witnessing Lagos and Nigeria stage this historic occasion fills me with immense pride. From the initial announcement in Monaco earlier this year to seeing it come alive here in Lagos is truly inspiring,” he remarked.
He shared the platform with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and football icon Didier Drogba, commending the city’s strategic use of sports as a catalyst for tourism growth and technological advancement.
“This event represents a significant achievement for Lagos and the African continent, advancing marine innovation and unlocking new tourism prospects through the global sports arena,” Pololikashvili added.
Echoing this sentiment, Hannatu Musawa, Nigeria’s Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, highlighted the event’s impact on enhancing the country’s international tourism stature.
“The E1 Electric Powerboat Race is a historic milestone for Africa and a clear indication of Nigeria’s leadership in sustainable tourism, innovation, and the blue economy. Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu‘s Renewed Hope Agenda, we are showcasing how sports can attract global attention, investment, and pride in our creative and tourism industries,” Musawa stated.
Pololikashvili also acknowledged Alejandro Agag, founder and chairman of the E1 Series, for his visionary dedication to Africa. He praised Agag’s insight into leveraging the synergy between sports and tourism to generate economic growth and promote sustainability.
Earlier this year, UNWTO formalized a partnership with the E1 Series by signing a Memorandum of Understanding in Monaco, a recognized center for sustainable marine mobility. This collaboration reinforces their mutual commitment to advancing clean marine transportation technologies and fostering sustainable sports tourism on a global scale.