The Governor of Edo State, Nigeria, Godwin Obaseki, has announced that the newly constructed 6,000-capacity arena in Benin City will be named “Rema Dome” in honour of Afrobeats sensation Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema. The groundbreaking ceremony for the arena took place on Wednesday at the former Garrick Memorial School ground on Ekehuan Road.
Governor Obaseki made the announcement in a post on his social media handle, saying, “It was a pleasure to have our global music icon, Rema, join me in performing the groundbreaking ceremony for the 6,000-capacity Edo Arena. The arena, which will be called ‘Rema Dome,’ is located at the former Garrick Memorial School ground on Ekehuan Road in the state capital.”
Rema, who was present at the event, expressed his pride and support for the project, commending the state government for its efforts. “To be at this point, I am very proud of Edo State. I am proud of the growth, the togetherness, and the zeal to make it greater. I am proud of the youths and ready to take part in anything that will give a drive to the youths, strengthen and motivate them. This is a blessing, and I will see to it that this project is finished well,” Rema stated.
Governor Obaseki explained that the idea for the arena was born out of the necessity to have a suitable venue for hosting cultural and entertainment events in the state. “We didn’t have venues to host events, especially when we invite people from outside the state. We saw the urgent need to create a large venue that can host huge events such as concerts, national conferences, symposiums, and conventions,” Obaseki noted.
The event was attended by various dignitaries, including the Minister of Arts, Culture, and Tourism, Uyi Oduwa Malaka, commissioners, special advisers, and members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Governor Obaseki also expressed his hopes for the arena to host both local and international music sensations, including Rema, in the future.
The newly named Rema Dome is expected to boost the state’s capacity to host major events and put Benin City on the map as a key destination for entertainment and cultural activities in Nigeria.
