The Isese Day holiday will be observed in Lagos and Ogun on August 20, 2026, with both states highlighting Yoruba culture and traditional heritage

Lagos and Ogun State governments have declared Thursday, August 20, 2026, a work-free day for the annual Isese Day holiday, allowing residents to participate in celebrations of Yoruba traditional religion and cultural heritage.

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In Lagos, the state government said more than three million residents are expected to take part in activities bringing together traditional worshippers, cultural custodians and visitors across the state.

Lagos State Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, said the decision was intended to give residents and visitors the opportunity to participate fully in the celebrations.

“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.

He noted that Yoruba cultural practices have extended beyond Nigeria, with communities in parts of Africa, the Caribbean and the Americas continuing to observe traditional customs.

Aregbe described Lagos as an important centre for the celebration, saying the city’s observance reflects the international reach of Yoruba heritage.

“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,” he 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. The policy has been maintained under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as part of the state’s stated commitment to indigenous heritage and religious inclusiveness.

This year’s programme is expected to feature traditional prayers, rituals, processions, drumming and cultural displays dedicated to the Orisa.

The activities are being coordinated by the Association of African Traditional Religion Nigeria and Overseas, AATREN.

Aregbe urged participants to observe the celebration peacefully and respect Nigerians of other faiths.

“Three million voices rising in honour of tradition is not noise. It is history, faith and cultural pride in harmony,” he said.

In neighbouring Ogun State, the government also declared August 20 a work-free day, describing the decision as part of efforts to preserve Yoruba culture, traditional institutions and indigenous values.

Ogun has observed Isese Day as a public holiday since 2023, following a resolution of the state House of Assembly and approval by Governor Dapo Abiodun.

The state government said the annual observance allows adherents of traditional religion to perform religious rites, honour their ancestors and celebrate values associated with Yoruba spiritual and cultural practices.

Beyond its religious significance, the government said the celebration provides an opportunity for a wider appreciation of Yoruba heritage and can strengthen community ties.

Both state governments called on residents to celebrate peacefully and responsibly while respecting the beliefs and practices of people from other religious backgrounds.

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The joint observance in Lagos and Ogun comes as interest in indigenous Nigerian traditions continues to feature prominently in cultural and tourism conversations, with Isese Day providing a visible platform for traditional worshippers and cultural custodians to celebrate their heritage.