Yoruba and Nagot traditional leaders have been working to strengthen their historical and cultural ties across the Nigeria–Benin border. According to a report published on 12 October 2026, a meeting of Yoruba and Nagot rulers took place in Savè, Benin Republic, on Thursday 8 October 2026, following a recent visit to Ile-Ife, described as the source of Yoruba civilisation. This article summarises what was reported and explains the Yoruba heritage on both sides of the border.
What Was Reported
The report says the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Palace of the Ooni of Ife, Otunba Moses Olafare, met with a former Vice Prime Minister of Benin, Professor François Abiola, on Wednesday 7 October 2026 at the palace of the Oba Onilaso of Ilaso Kingdom in Benin. A document detailing resolutions from the Savè meeting the next day outlined steps to strengthen relationships between the communities. The details come from a statement issued by the Ooni’s palace and reported by the Ife City Blog. We will update this article if more detailed coverage appears.
Who Are the Nagot?
In Benin Republic, Yoruba-speaking communities are often called Nagot (or Nago). Historic Yoruba kingdoms in the region include Ketu, Savè and others whose rulers trace links to Ile-Ife. These areas were part of the wider Yoruba world long before modern borders, and several became part of or traded with the Oyo Empire. See our guides to the Oyo Empire and Yoruba kingdoms and city-states.
Why Ile-Ife Matters to Yoruba Communities in Benin
Yoruba tradition regards Ile-Ife as the spiritual cradle of the Yoruba, and many royal houses, including those in Benin, point to Ife as their source. Read the background in Ile-Ife: cradle of the Yoruba, the origin of the Yoruba and who is the Ooni of Ife.
Yoruba Culture Beyond Nigeria
Yoruba culture extends into Benin, Togo and across the Atlantic. Festivals, religion and language link these communities; see Yoruba subgroups, Yoruba tribe facts, the Yoruba diaspora and Yoruba kings and Obas. For broader background, see Wikipedia’s Yoruba people page.
What to Watch
The meetings point to continued cultural diplomacy between Ile-Ife and communities in Benin. Follow our News & Trends section for updates.
FAQs
Who are the Nagot people?
Nagot is the name often used in Benin for Yoruba-speaking communities.
Where is Savè?
Savè is a historic Yoruba town in Benin Republic.
Are there Yoruba kingdoms in Benin?
Yes. Historic kingdoms such as Ketu and Savè are part of the wider Yoruba world.
