Isese Day: Lagos, Oyo, Ogun Declare Wednesday Public Holiday

The Lagos State government made the announcement through a circular issued by the state’s Head of Service, Bode Agoro, and addressed to top government officials, including the Deputy Governor, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, the Chief Judge, commissioners, chairmen of local councils, Local Council Development Areas, permanent secretaries, and heads of state agencies, among others.

According to the circular, the declaration was part of Sanwo-Olu’s reaffirmed commitment to promoting indigenous culture, tradition, and heritage while strengthening support for traditional institutions across the state.

Also, declaring the day a public holiday, the Oyo State government, through the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, in a circular dated August 18, 2025, indicated that the governor approved the work-free day to mark the Isese Day Celebration.

It would be recalled that August 20 was formally declared a public holiday in 2023, following a motion passed by the Ogun State House of Assembly and the concurrent approval of Governor Dapo Abiodun.

The day is set aside to celebrate Yoruba religion and traditions. In a statement, the state government said the introduction of Isese Day as a public holiday reflects Abiodun’s recognition of the vital role that Yoruba heritage and practices play in the state’s identity and cultural landscape.

https://guardian.ng/features/culture/isese-day-lagos-oyo-ogun-declare-public-holiday/