Journal of African Studies and Sustainable Development

The study examined the nature of international relations in Pre-Colonial Benin and her neighbours, before the effective occupation of this region by the European invaders. The work posits that these states had sophisticated inter-state system, that is comparable to contemporary Westphalian narrative on one hand. While, on the other hand, it had a unique international system that was remarkably different from the Euro-centric perspective. Primary and Secondary sources were used to supply historical perspective to the wider debate about pre-colonial Africa international relations. In order to ensure authentication of facts, internal and external criticism of data collected was done and the facts were presented in a clear form involving problem of organization, composition, exposition and interpretation. In addition, Afrocentrism theoretical framework was used to situate pre-colonial Africa's understanding of inter-states relations. The study found that economic reason was a major factor that sustained international relations between Benin and her immediate neighbours in pre-colonial times. Trade and commerce was relatively without conflict, and as a result, there was peace and cordiality among groups. It also, found that treaties played a major part in Benin and her neighbours' inter-state relations, which were most visible in periods of wars and conflicts through the instrumentality of dialogue and negotiations.

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