The Edo State Government, under Ex-Governor Godwin Obaseki, has begun construction of a 6,000-seat indoor multipurpose arena in Benin City. The venue, known as Edo Arena or Rema’s Dome, is located on the former Garrick Memorial School grounds along Ekehuan Road. It was officially named in honour of Afrobeats superstar Rema, who joined the Ex-Governor at the groundbreaking ceremony.
Purpose and Significance
Edo Arena is envisioned as a flagship facility that will transform the cultural and entertainment landscape of the state. Designed to host concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and conferences, the arena will provide a modern venue for events that previously required temporary setups or out-of-state travel.
Beyond entertainment, the complex will support tourism, business events, and economic development, stimulating growth in hospitality, retail, and transport. The state government has highlighted the project as part of a broader drive to build Edo into a creative and economic hub for southern Nigeria.
Location and Scope
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Site: Former Garrick Memorial School Ground, Ekehuan Road, Benin City
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Land Area: Approximately 5 hectares
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Capacity: 6,000 seats
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Groundbreaking Date: 29 August 2024
The facility is designed with flexibility in mind — capable of hosting major concerts, sporting events, trade fairs, and conventions. Its location within Benin City ensures easy access and integration with existing urban infrastructure.
Strategic Impact
The Edo Arena represents more than a venue; it symbolises the state’s cultural pride and its ambition to position itself as a creative-industry powerhouse. Naming the project after Rema underscores the connection between Edo’s vibrant youth culture and its emerging entertainment identity.
Economically, the arena is expected to drive job creation during and after construction, generate local revenue, and attract visitors for national and international events. For the creative community, it will serve as a dedicated performance space and catalyst for music, art, and film development within Edo State.
Challenges and Considerations
As with all large infrastructure projects, maintaining clear governance and timely completion will be essential. Effective management after commissioning will determine whether the arena becomes a self-sustaining enterprise or a public-sector burden. Transparency in operational models, maintenance funding, and event scheduling will be crucial to its long-term success.
Looking Ahead
Construction is currently underway, with completion expected in the near future. Once open, the Edo Arena will give the state its first large-scale, world-class indoor venue — a place where culture, business, and creativity converge.
Conclusion
Edo Arena, or Rema’s Dome, stands as a bold statement of vision for Edo State. It merges infrastructure, culture, and youth empowerment into one project that reflects the heartbeat of modern Benin City. More than just a building, it embodies the idea that entertainment and creativity can drive economic progress, social cohesion, and pride in local heritage.
