Lagos and Ogun declare August 20 a public holiday for Isese Day, with traditional worshippers set to mark Yoruba heritage through prayers and cultural events

Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun have declared Thursday, August 20, 2026, a public holiday in their respective states to mark Isese Day and celebrate Yoruba traditional heritage.

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The declaration will allow residents, traditional worshippers and visitors to participate in ceremonies featuring prayers, processions, drumming, rituals and cultural displays.

In Lagos, Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture Idris Aregbe said more than three million people are expected to participate in activities marking the annual celebration.

Aregbe described the occasion as more than a day off work, arguing that Isese represents a living aspect of Yoruba spirituality and cultural identity.

“Ìṣẹ̀ṣe is not a relic. It is a living expression of our traditions and a celebration of Yoruba spirituality as an important part of Nigeria’s cultural and religious landscape,” Aregbe said.

The Lagos government has observed Isese Day as a work-free day since 2023, following a request by the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs. Sanwo-Olu has maintained the policy as part of his administration’s stated commitment to indigenous values and religious inclusiveness.

Aregbe also placed the celebration within the wider Yoruba diaspora, noting the continued practice of Yoruba traditions in parts of the Caribbean and the Americas.

“When the drums sound in Lagos on Thursday, they answer drums in Havana, in Salvador, in Port of Spain. Fifty-five million people and counting. Lagos is not observing a local holiday. Lagos is standing at the centre of a global heritage,” he said.

The 2026 programme is expected to feature traditional prayers, rituals, processions, drumming and performances dedicated to the Òrìṣà. The Association of African Traditional Religion Nigeria and Overseas is coordinating the activities.

Aregbe also praised Sanwo-Olu and the traditional institution for supporting the celebration, particularly the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu I, alongside traditional rulers, chiefs, Babaláwo, Ìyánífá and other custodians of Yoruba heritage.

“Governments come and go. Custodians carry the culture,” Aregbe said.

In Ogun State, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Kayode Akinmade said the government had also approved August 20 as a public holiday to commemorate Isese Day.

The state has recognised August 20 as a public holiday since 2023, following a resolution of the Ogun State House of Assembly and approval by Governor Abiodun.

The Ogun government said the observance gives adherents of traditional religion an opportunity to honour their ancestors, perform traditional rites and reflect on the values associated with Yoruba spiritual and cultural practices.

Officials also said the celebration could encourage greater public appreciation of Yoruba heritage while strengthening community ties and recognising the role of traditional institutions in preserving cultural identity.

Both states urged residents to celebrate peacefully and responsibly while respecting people of different religious beliefs and practices.

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The Isese public holiday therefore comes as part of a broader effort by Lagos and Ogun to give greater visibility to indigenous culture while promoting religious tolerance and social harmony.