Following the spectacular finale of the inaugural E1 Lagos Grand Prix, First Bank has once again demonstrated its dedication to pioneering sports innovation and reinforcing its longstanding tradition of nurturing Nigeria’s dynamic athletic community.
As the principal sponsor, First Bank of Nigeria Limited played a pivotal role in hosting the first-ever E1 Lagos GP, an alllagos-firstbank-environmental-sustainability/” title=”…: First …'s Bold Commitment to Environmental Sustainability Ignites … in … and UNDP”>-electric powerboat racing championship that has set a new benchmark in Nigeria’s sporting history. This event is widely recognized within sports circles as yet another groundbreaking achievement by the nation’s foremost financial institution.
Team Brazil emerged victorious in this historic competition, amassing a commanding 38 points. They outpaced Team Blue Rising, who finished as runners-up, while Team Drogba secured the third spot on the podium.
Olayinka Ijabiyi, acting group head of marketing and corporate communications at First Bank, highlighted the bank’s strategic alignment with the E1 Lagos GP, underscoring how the collaboration reflects the institution’s core principles of innovation and environmental responsibility.
He emphasized that First Bank’s backing of the electric powerboat race exemplifies its unwavering commitment to sports development and sustainable progress.
“Many have wondered why First Bank chose to champion the E1 Lagos GP, the first event of its kind on the African continent.
The answer lies in our dedication to values like innovation, sustainability, and excitement. With a heritage spanning 131 years, we have continually evolved to stay relevant and forward-thinking.
Who better to introduce the continent’s first electric motor powerboat race to Lagos than First Bank? It was essential that we lead this initiative. Through the E1 Lagos GP, we have showcased Lagos, Nigeria, and First Bank on the global stage,” Ijabiyi remarked.
The event was graced by notable figures including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and former Chelsea and Ivory Coast football star Didier Drogba, both of whom added to the event’s vibrant and energetic atmosphere.
Ijabiyi expressed immense pride in First Bank’s enduring involvement in sports, pointing to a rich legacy of supporting athletic endeavors. “Our history in sports spans over a century. We sponsor a women’s basketball team, a men’s football team, among others,” he said. “These initiatives highlight our consistent presence and influence in the sports arena. We truly embody a powerful sporting brand.”
Rodi Basso, Founder and CEO of E1, praised the warm reception Lagos extended to the event, noting the significant economic opportunities it has unlocked for the region.
“The hospitality we have experienced in Lagos has been extraordinary. The enthusiasm and spirit of the Nigerian people have made the historic E1 Lagos GP, proudly presented by FirstBank, a reality. I am deeply honored that we have brought this form of racing to life here,” he stated.
“Our vision is to establish a lasting motorsport heritage across Africa. This weekend’s race is merely the starting point, and today’s qualifying rounds have offered an exhilarating preview of the excitement awaiting race day tomorrow,” Basso added.
