Afrobeats sensation Rema has been honored with a royal plaque by the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, during a visit to the Benin monarch’s palace on Thursday. The prestigious award comes as Rema prepares for his highly anticipated homecoming concert at the Ogbe Stadium in Benin City.
The royal recognition is a testament to Rema’s significant contributions to promoting Edo State and the rich legacy of the ancient Benin Empire through his music. The singer, born Divine Ikubor, has proudly represented his roots, with his latest hit song, “Benin Boys,” featuring fellow Edo-born artist Shallipopi, serving as a tribute to his hometown.
Rema’s connection to his heritage was further solidified on Wednesday when he joined Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Edo Arena. The governor announced that the 6,000-capacity venue would be named “Rema Dome” in honor of the singer, recognizing his role as a cultural ambassador for Edo State.
During the presentation of the royal plaque, the Oba of Benin expressed his admiration for Rema’s dedication to promoting the Benin Kingdom’s culture and values. The singer, who had earlier mentioned in his song that he deserved a medal from the Oba for his efforts, was visibly moved by the royal recognition.
Rema’s homecoming concert is expected to be a grand celebration, drawing fans from across the region to celebrate the achievements of one of Benin City’s most successful musical exports. The event will not only showcase his musical talents but also highlight the deep cultural ties that continue to inspire his artistry.
