Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has announced that the newly planned 6,000-capacity Edo Arena will be named in honor of global afrobeats sensation Rema. The governor made this revelation during the groundbreaking ceremony for the arena in Benin City on Wednesday, where Rema himself was present to lay the first block.
“It was a pleasure to have our global music icon @heisrema join me in performing the groundbreaking ceremony for the 6,000-capacity Edo Arena. The arena, which will be called ‘Rema’s Dome,’ is located at the former Garrick Memorial School Ground on Ekenhuan Road in Benin City,” Governor Obaseki shared via his X handle shortly after the ceremony.
The governor emphasized that the arena, once completed, will serve as a multipurpose venue capable of hosting concerts, national conferences, symposiums, and other large gatherings. He highlighted that the facility will not only boost tourism but also create employment opportunities for the youth, as it draws visitors to experience the rich culture of Edo State.
Rema, whose real name is Divine Ikubor, is a native of Benin City and has consistently represented his roots in his music. His presence at the groundbreaking ceremony underscored his role as a proud ambassador of Edo State. The afrobeats star’s latest hit, ‘Benin Boys,’ featuring fellow Edo-born artist Shallipopi, serves as a tribute to his hometown.
The decision to name the arena after Rema celebrates his contributions to the global music scene and his efforts in promoting the cultural heritage of Benin.
