When Sayawa migrated from Chad to their present location, they were rich culturally, they were self-sufficient in farming and exchange of goods and services.
It is also believed that there was a strong relationship between Sayawa and Gobir (Hausa) because of the similarity of tribal marks.
The Zaar (sayawa) left Ngazargamu with their relations, namely: Jarawa, Warjawa, Femaway, Angasawa, Surawa, Mwaghavul, Mupun, Kutumbawa, Babur/Bura.
(Gunn, 1956:22), Margi and Kilba (Meek, 1931-137 and 181) to various places but first briefly stopped at Biu to the wilderness now known as Duguri or Yankari area.
According to the interview with the Barayan Bauchi, Mallam Umaru Sanda in January, 1980, the Sayawa were formerly living in various hills before coming down to low land during the Jihad as result of peace treaty with the Jihadist.
Members of the first settlement included Bogoro, Mwari, Gwarangah, Bijim, Gambar Zugum, Bar, Kurum, Bom, Tudun Wadan-Gyara, Gobbiya, Yola, Badagari, Mingil, Ragami, parts of Basanshi, Dunga, Malar, Dashem SongSong and Wandi.
The fifth settlement, Lusa/Sur/Dunga, includes Lusa, Dungah, Malar, Sur (Tapshin), Gwaska, Ndit, Gizaki, Unguwar Galadima, Jigawa, etc.
Most of the Sayawa tradition or cultural heritage are organized during festivals, marriage and burial ceremonies.