Lagos Warns Against Dumping Of Refuse In Lagoons

As the state government and other stakeholders conclude plans to host Africa’s first-ever E1 electric powerboat championship, the Lagos State government has warned residents against indiscriminate waste disposal in the metropolis and lagoons.

The Lagos State commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, who stated this at the E1 Lagos GP Immersion Session, held at LASWA Boat Jetty at Falomo in Ikoyi area of the state, described Lagos as a city of strength and innovation, one that constantly reinvents itself and continues to attract the world’s attention.

According to him, the championship will be showcasing Lagos as a hub of resilience, opportunity and enterprise, with global attention set to focus on its waterways as the city hosts the E1 Lagos GP from October 3 to 5 in Victoria Island.

He said the upcoming E1 Lagos GP is not just another sporting event but a scientific demonstration of precision, accuracy, and sustainability, adding that the excitement building around the event is a testament to Lagos’ creativity and potential.

The commissioner urged Lagosians to embrace the opportunities the water-based sporting event will bring. “This is more than putting race boats on the water. Everything about it requires science, careful planning, and accuracy. It shows that it is serious business for Lagos. It is about sustainability, creativity, and responsibility. Lagos is indeed the city of now and the city of the future,” he said.

Omotoso, while emphasising the need for Lagos residents to take ownership of their environment, said, “The environment is the only thing we can leave behind for the generations that are coming after us.

We must not abuse it, and we must not mess it up. Our lagoons must remain clean, because visitors are coming, and they must see that Lagos values sustainability.”

Also, the chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Mr Sam Egube, who highlighted the global significance of the E1 Lagos GP, said Lagos is fast becoming Africa’s hub for technology, culture, and enterprise.

Egube, who is the deputy chief of staff to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, noted that the event offers Lagos an opportunity to showcase its readiness to host world-class experiences, adding that beyond the competition, the city is positioning itself as a top destination for innovation and cultural diplomacy.

“The world is beginning to recognise Lagos for what it truly is – a resilient city with untapped potential. Investors see this, and that is why Lagos remains at the forefront of conversations about Africa’s future,” he said.

The general manager of the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), Mr Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, assured participants that comprehensive measures are being put in place to guarantee smooth operations.