Edo State Names New Arena ‘Rema’s Dome’ in Honor of Rema

At the ceremony, where Governor Obaseki laid the arena’s first block, Rema, who was in town for his much-anticipated homecoming concert at Ogbe Stadium, joined him. On Ekenhuan Road, the location of the former Garrick Memorial School Ground will eventually become the venue known as “Rema’s Dome.”

“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,” Governor Obaseki said in a post on X following the event. “The arena will be named ‘Rema’s Dome’ and will host a wide range of events including concerts, national conferences, symposiums, and more.”

Governor Obaseki highlighted that once completed, the arena will become a major attraction, drawing visitors to experience Edo State’s rich culture and heritage. He emphasized that the project will also create new employment opportunities for local youth.

Rema, born Divine Ikubor, hails from Benin City and has long been a proud ambassador for his hometown, celebrating Edo State and the legacy of the ancient Benin Empire through his music and performances. His latest hit, ‘Benin Boys,’ featuring fellow Edo-born artist Shallipopi, pays tribute to his hometown.

Rema’s rise to fame began in 2018 with a viral Instagram freestyle covering D’Prince’s song “Gucci Gang.” He solidified his place in the music industry with his debut single “Dumebi” in 2019, and has since become a major force in pop music.

The homecoming concert, scheduled to take place at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on Thursday, August 30, is a long-awaited event for fans. It marks a return for him after a previous attempt by Governor Obaseki to host him in December 2023 was postponed due to health issues.