The Lagos State Government has announced a two-day traffic diversion in parts of Victoria Island for the Electric Powerboat Racing Championship (E1 Series), scheduled to hold on the Victoria Island lagoon from October 4 to 5.
Roads to be Closed for E1 Powerboat Championship
In a statement on Tuesday, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, Commissioner for Transportation, confirmed that there will be a total road closure at the 1st Lekki junction inward Ozumba Mbadiwe during the event.
“Motorists are implored to be patient, as the diversion is part of the traffic management plans for the E1 boat race event,” the statement read.
Motorists from Ajah heading to Lekki will make a U-turn at Lekki 1st junction by the pedestrian bridge to connect Yesufu Abiodun, Maroko Police Station, City of David, Ligali Ayorinde, Ajose Adeogun, and Eko Hotel roundabout, before continuing to Ahmadu Bello Way, Independence Bridge, and Onikan.
Alternative Routes for Motorists
Those traveling from Ajah towards CMS can go through Abraham Adesanya, connect Ogonbo Road and Okun Ajah Road, then link Coastal Road to Ahmadu Bello Way, Independence Bridge, and Onikan.
Motorists from Lekki and nearby areas heading to Ikoyi or the mainland are advised to use Admiralty Way to access the Lekki Link Bridge, then connect Alexander Road, Bourdillon, Gerrard Road, and Osborne Road.
For those going from Lekki to CMS, the advisory recommends connecting Yesufu Abiodun to Oniru Road, passing through Aboyade Cole and Ligali Ayorinde, then continuing to Eko Hotel roundabout and Ahmadu Bello Way.
However, motorists from CMS, Independence Bridge, and Ozumba Mbadiwe inward Lekki-Epe Expressway will enjoy uninterrupted passage to Ajah and other parts of the axis.
Parking and Traffic Management
Designated parking spaces will be available at Fidelity Bank, Access Bank, and the Nigerian Law School premises in Victoria Island, Osiyemi confirmed.
He added that the coastal road will remain open during the restriction and urged motorists to cooperate with Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) officials, who will be strategically deployed along event routes.
Lagos Hosts Africa’s First Electric Powerboat Racing Championship
The E1 Series is the world’s first international championship for electric powerboats, created to showcase clean technology and sustainability in water sports.
The boats, known as RaceBirds, are battery-driven hydrofoil vessels that can reach speeds of up to 93km/h while gliding above water to reduce drag, noise, and carbon emissions.
The series began in 2024 with races in Jeddah, Venice, and Monaco. With the Lagos Grand Prix, Nigeria becomes the first African country to host the event.
Organisers say the championship aligns with Lagos State’s push to advance eco-friendly transportation and innovation on its waterways. Each team must also feature both male and female pilots, ensuring gender balance in the competition.
Boost for Tourism and Lagos Economy
Beyond the racing spectacle, the event is expected to attract global attention, boost tourism, and strengthen Lagos’ position as a cultural and economic hub in Africa.
Conclusion
The two-day traffic diversion in Victoria Island is a vital part of Lagos’ preparations for the Electric Powerboat Racing Championship (E1 Series). With Nigeria hosting the African debut of this groundbreaking event, the city is set to highlight its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and international tourism.
