Russell Wilson and Ciara Embrace Benin's Afro-Descendant Nationality Initiative: A Journey to Citizenship and Cultural Celebration
Russell Wilson is taking steps to become a citizen of Benin through the country's Afro-descendant nationality initiative. During his visit to Benin in January 2026, he announced his intention to apply for Beninese citizenship through the My Afro Origins platform, which allows individuals of African descent to establish ancestral ties to the transatlantic slave trade. The process involves DNA testing, family records, or verified testimonies and typically takes around three months once the application is approved.
Wilson's announcement coincided with Benin's annual Vodun Days celebration in Ouidah, a spiritual and cultural event that honors Vodun as a significant part of African heritage. The festival, held from January 8–10, features traditional rituals, live performances, and ceremonies at historic sites like the Slave Route and the Door of No Return in Ouidah, a former slave port.
During Vodun Days, Wilson supported his wife, Ciara, who performed at the event after being granted Beninese citizenship in July 2025. Ciara's performance on January 9 was well-received, with her hit song "Level Up" captivating the audience. Her journey to citizenship was a significant moment, as she was one of the first public figures to receive Beninese nationality under the new law. Her citizenship ceremony in Cotonou in July 2025 garnered widespread attention, and she has since been actively promoting Benin's cultural heritage.
Both Wilson and Ciara's connections to Benin highlight their commitment to honoring their African roots and participating in cultural events that celebrate the country's history and traditions. Their involvement in Vodun Days underscores the importance of recognizing and preserving African heritage for future generations.