Four Nigerian South West states of Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and Osun, have declared Wednesday, 20 August 2025, a public holiday in commemoration of Isese Day, an annual celebration dedicated to Yoruba culture, religion, and traditions.
In Lagos, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu approved the holiday for all public servants to enable traditional worshippers and residents to fully participate in the festival.
A circular issued on Monday by the state’s Head of Service, Mr Bode Agoro, directed Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to disseminate the announcement across government offices.
It was also announced that work is expected to resume on Thursday, 21 August.
The circular explained that the declaration aligns with Lagos State’s commitment to supporting traditional institutions and safeguarding cultural values.
Similarly, in Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde approved the work-free day through a circular signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo. The governor urged citizens to use the occasion to pray for peace, unity, and stability in the state and across Nigeria.
In Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun reaffirmed the recognition of August 20 as Isese Day, following its formal adoption in 2023 after a resolution by the State House of Assembly.
A statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, said the holiday underscores the “vital role that Yoruba heritage and practices play in the state’s identity and cultural landscape.”
Akinmade noted that the celebration strengthens community bonds among practitioners and invites wider appreciation of Yoruba traditions.
Osun State also joined in the declaration, with Governor Ademola Adeleke approving a work-free day for the festival.
A statement issued by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Abdul Rasheed Aderibigbe, conveyed the governor’s goodwill message to traditional worshippers and wished them a joyous and memorable celebration.
The 2025 declarations mark another milestone in the growing acceptance of Isese Day as a public holiday across the South-West.
The push for official recognition began in 2022, when traditional religion adherents and cultural groups intensified advocacy for parity with other faiths. Their campaign emphasised the importance of acknowledging Yoruba indigenous spirituality as part of Nigeria’s diverse heritage.
In 2023, Ogun State became the first to institutionalise Isese Day following a motion passed by its House of Assembly and ratified by Governor Abiodun. This landmark step provided the framework for other states to follow suit.
By 2024, Lagos, Oyo, and Osun had joined Ogun in declaring ad hoc work-free days for the observance, citing the need to promote inclusivity and cultural pride. Their latest coordinated declarations in 2025 highlight the growing momentum for recognising indigenous traditions in governance and public life.
Isese Day, observed annually on 20 August, is one of the most significant festivals in Yoruba tradition. It is dedicated to honouring ancestors, deities, and indigenous practices while reinforcing cultural pride among the Yoruba people.
With four states now officially marking the holiday, the observance is fast becoming a symbol of cultural revival and identity across Yorubaland, reflecting Nigeria’s broader effort to preserve its indigenous heritage.
