In a significant nod to the cultural and musical achievements of Afrobeats, the Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has announced that the newly planned 6,000-capacity arena in Benin City will be named “Rema’s Dome” in honor of the global music icon Rema. This announcement was made during the groundbreaking ceremony of the project, held at the site of the former Garrick Memorial School Ground on Ekenhuan Road, Benin City.
Rema, a native of Benin and a world-renowned Afrobeats artist, was present at the ceremony and joined Governor Obaseki in laying the first block for the construction of the arena. The Governor’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle shared the news on Wednesday, August 28, emphasizing the importance of this partnership in enhancing the state’s cultural footprint.
The Governor’s post stated: “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.”
Spanning approximately 5 hectares, Rema’s Dome is envisioned as more than just a venue; it is set to become a dynamic entertainment hub designed to host a diverse array of events, from concerts and national conferences to symposiums and other large-scale gatherings. The Governor highlighted that the arena will not only serve as a focal point for entertainment in the state but also as a catalyst for economic growth by attracting visitors and creating employment opportunities for the youth.
Governor Obaseki further expressed his gratitude to Rema for being an integral part of the event, stating, “Special thanks to our Afrobeats superstar for being a part of this event. With someone of the calibre and fame of @heisrema associated with the arena, it automatically becomes a global project.”
Rema’s Dome is expected to become a landmark destination in Edo State, symbolizing the fusion of local culture with global influence, and positioning Benin City as a vibrant center for entertainment and cultural exchange.
