Expansion of the Benin Empire

Timeline

1. 1486Court of Benin City · NigeriaOba Ozolua inherited the expansionist policy of his predecessor Oba Ewuare, reorganized the standing army and strengthened the court's command over the military nobility, preparing for overseas campaigns.
2. 1486–1487Northern Niger Delta · NigeriaBenin's armies launched offensives against neighboring Yoruba city-states and coastal tribes, forcing local chiefs to acknowledge the Oba's overlordship and pay regular tribute; the center incorporated new vassals into the kingdom's administrative network through resident representatives and a ceremonial system.