Fun, Glamour, Waves of excitement as First Bank powers E1 Lagos GP

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The Lagos waterfront came alive on Saturday as First Bank of Nigeria transformed Victoria Island into a dazzling hub of energy, glamour and fun to mark the official kick-off of the E1 Lagos Grand Prix, Africa’s first-ever all-electric powerboat race.

The atmosphere was filled with excitement as sleek, futuristic powerboats sliced through the Atlantic waves, blending high-speed sport with the unmistakable Lagos flair for celebration. Crowds gathered early, drawn by the buzz of a global event meeting Nigerian vibrance and, of course, First Bank’s signature touch of class.

E1’s debut on African waters marked a historic milestone. Lagos, known for its dynamism and cultural heartbeat, proved to be the perfect stage for the international offshore racing series. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, E1 CEO and co-founder Rodi Basso, and First Bank’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Olusegun Alebiosu, were among the prominent figures who graced the event, alongside international sporting icons and investors.

Among the biggest crowd-pullers was Didier Drogba, the Ivorian football legend and former Chelsea striker, now co-owner of Team Drogba Global Africa, who thrilled fans with his trademark charisma. The combination of sports, innovation and star power set the tone for an unforgettable Lagos weekend.

At the fan zone, it was a carnival of sights and sounds. Hundreds of Lagosians gathered to witness the water spectacle, with plenty to eat, drink and dance to. The First Bank experience booths bustled with activity as music filled the air, vendors sold local delicacies, and small-scale entrepreneurs made brisk sales.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s arrival at the fan zone sent a ripple of excitement through the crowd as he mingled with fans, shaking hands and sharing cheerful waves. At the First Bank pavilion, staff attended to enthusiastic visitors eager to open accounts and learn more about the bank’s lifestyle offerings.

For many, the E1 Lagos GP was more than a sporting event, it was a celebration of Lagos itself.

“It honestly surpassed my expectations,” said Latoya Johnson, one of the thrilled spectators.

“I never imagined Nigeria could host something this world-class. I’m proud of Lagos, and proud of Nigeria,” she added.

She applauded First Bank for sponsoring the event, saying, “My parents banked with First Bank, and I grew up knowing it as the reliable one. So, I wasn’t surprised they’re leading something this big; they’ve always been part of Nigeria’s proudest moments.”

For First Bank, the E1 Lagos GP is more than sponsorship, it’s an extension of the “FirstBank DecemberIssaVybe” tradition that has become synonymous with premium entertainment and festive fun.

Since 2018, the bank’s Vybe series has redefined Lagos’ entertainment calendar, offering customers access to concerts, comedy shows, and cultural festivals, all with that signature First Bank flair. Last December’s Reckless Musicomedy Festival featuring Kenny Blaq, DJ Neptune, and MC Monica was still fresh in memory when the bank decided to bring the party forward to October.

With the E1 Lagos GP, First Bank has once again proven that it’s not just about banking, it’s about lifestyle, innovation, and creating shared experiences that unite people. The event also reinforces the bank’s commitment to sustainability, tourism, and economic empowerment, highlighting Lagos as a global destination for leisure and culture.

As the sun set over the Lagos skyline, the waterfront sparkled a symbol of energy, pride, and endless possibility. With the E1 Lagos GP finale set for Sunday, October 5, one thing is certain: Lagosians are riding the wave of excitement, and First Bank is steering the fun.