INikki · Borgou · Benin
Gaani
The Bariba people’s grand royal and cultural festival invites you to join us in August 2027 for a new edition, on a date to be announced shortly.
IIWelcome
Welcome to the Gaani
One people, one history, one crown
La Gaani is one of the largest traditional and religious celebrations in northern Benin. Held every year in Nikki, the historic capital of the Bariba Kingdom (Baatonu country), it is an event that celebrates identity, spirituality and culture, honouring the kingdom’s history, ancestral traditions and the central role of the Sina Boko, the traditional ruler of Nikki.
Thousandsof festival-goers every year
3 daysof celebration
16th c.roots of the kingdom
Baribapeople & culture
IIIAt a glance
The Highlights
The Grand Royal Parade
Wassangari horsemen before the imperial palace
The Royal Ceremonies
Ancestral rites around the Sinaboko
Dances & Performances
Songs, drumming and traditional dances
The Cultural Village
Local artisans, makers and producers