The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), has announced the temporary closure of all private and commercial jetties and terminals along the Five Cowries Creek ahead of the E1 Championship the world’s first all-electric powerboat racing tournament.
In a statement on Monday, LASWA said the closures will run from Friday, October 3, to Sunday, October 5, 2025, to ensure safety and smooth event operations.
According to the agency, there will be a partial closure from Falomo Bridge to Oriental Hotel on Thursday, October 2, between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. On Friday, October 3, a full closure will be enforced from Oriental Hotel to Mekwen Bridge within the same hours. Similarly, on Saturday, October 4, and Sunday, October 5, there will be a total closure from Falomo Bridge to Oriental Hotel between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily.
LASWA explained that the restrictions are essential for safety, security, and the seamless hosting of the international sporting event.
“The waterways restriction is a vital safety and security measure to ensure smooth operations, safeguard lives, and project Lagos as a world-class destination for international sports,” the statement read.
The E1 Championship founded by Alejandro Agag, creator of Formula E and Extreme E, and Rodi Basso, a former Formula 1 engineer aims to transform water sports through advanced technology and sustainability. It features high-speed electric “RaceBird” boats that glide above water on hydrofoils, significantly reducing drag and emissions.
Structured as a global city-to-city series, the tournament has been hosted in Jeddah, Monaco, and Venice. Lagos will now make history as the first African city to host the championship.
LASWA noted that hosting the event would boost eco-tourism, investment, and innovation in Africa’s blue economy while placing Lagos firmly on the global sporting map. Normal operations at affected jetties and terminals will resume on Monday, October 6, 2025.
On July 20, 2025, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had announced Lagos’ selection as host city, calling it a landmark achievement.
“I’m proud to share that Lagos will become the first African city to host the E1 Championship on October 4th and 5th, 2025. That’s a major milestone for the sport and for what it says about our city,” Sanwo-Olu wrote on his official X handle.
He added that the event affirms Lagos’ readiness to be part of global discussions on sustainability and innovation in marine transport.
“It shows that Lagos is ready to be part of the global conversation on clean energy, sustainability, and new approaches to marine transportation,” the governor stated.
