The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to harnessing the State’s waterways for innovation, growth, and long-term prosperity through the development of a sustainable blue economy.
He said the Lagos State Government is committed to using the E1 Lagos GP championship, which the State is currently hosting, to build a climate change ecosystems that is bigger and bolder to create leaders in economy, entertainment, innovation and technology while providing an electrifying environment.
Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke at the African Blue Economy Summit: Lagos 2025 with the theme “Harnessing Africa’s Blue Natural Capital for Sustainable Growth”, held at Azuri Towers, Eko Atlantic City, Victoria Island, on Friday.
Sanwo-Olu, who emphasised Lagos’ resolve to integrate sustainability, climate adaptation and economic development into its long-term vision, said Lagos is uniquely positioned to lead Africa in sustainable marine development, citing ongoing investments in water transport, maritime infrastructure and climate adaptation.
Also speaking, the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, described the economic summit as a vital platform to harness Africa’s marine resources for prosperity and inclusive growth. He said the State Government is already investing in community-driven climate initiatives and major infrastructure projects.
Osiyemi affirmed the collective commitment of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration to build an avenue to design an environment for a united future and invest in infrastructure to tap opportunities in the waterways, which is a unique platform to harness strategic investment and advance sustainable maritime corners.
In his address, the President of the Didier Drogba Foundation, Didier Drogba, said the blue economy summit was a question of survival, as Lagos State leads in a global economy as a symbol of how technology, entertainment and innovation could be harnessed for transformation, ensuring how the youths can protect, innovate, thrive and align their future.
Drogba, the Ivory Coast-born former African Footballer of the Year and ex-Chelsea striker, said he was very proud and happy to be in Lagos. He expressed delight at the successful hosting of the E1 Lagos GP in Lagos, describing it as the fulfilment of a long-held dream.
“I am very proud and happy to be in Lagos, because bringing the E1 race to Africa has always been our dream, and Nigeria has proven that it is possible,” he said.
Also speaking, the co-Founder and Chairman of the E1 Series, Alejandro Agag, praised Lagos for its efficiency and commitment to sustainable transportation. He also commended Lagos for its efficiency and commitment in hosting the electric boat racing competition.
He said the E1 Lagos GP competition would be the beginning of great things to happen in Nigeria, urging the Lagos State Government and other partners to support the game for the next five years, as he was impressed with the efficiency and commitment to the event.
The African Blue Economy Summit: Lagos 2025 was attended by key stakeholders and global leaders, including the Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change, Omotenioye Majekodunmi, who spoke passionately on mangrove restoration, climate change, maritime infrastructure and strategic investments for sustainable development.
The speakers commended the Lagos State Government for its leadership role in advancing climate resilience and innovation in Africa.
With stakeholders from across the continent and beyond in attendance, the summit reinforced Lagos’ growing profile as a hub for sustainability, global partnerships, and future-orientated economic development.
