(Gov Sanwo-Olu. Photo by Osun State)
Lagos State’s government has declared Thursday, August 20, 2026, as a public holiday so residents and visitors can participate in Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day celebrations.
Idris Aregbe, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, announced the decision on Wednesday.
He said the declaration would allow Lagos residents and visitors to fully participate in the celebration, which is expected to draw more than three million traditional worshippers.
Aregbe described Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day as more than just a public holiday, emphasising its importance to Yoruba spirituality and cultural heritage.
He said Ìṣẹ̀ṣe is not something from the past but a living expression of Yoruba traditions and an important part of Nigeria’s cultural and religious landscape.
Aregbe noted that Yoruba people, numbering over 55 million worldwide, have preserved their cultural heritage and passed it to younger generations.
He pointed out that Ìṣẹ̀ṣe festivals are also celebrated in countries like Cuba, Brazil and parts of the Caribbean, where Yoruba descendants live.
He said when drums sound in Lagos on Thursday, they will be answered by drums in other parts of the world, showing that Lagos is part of a global heritage celebration.
Lagos has observed this day as a work-free holiday since 2023, following a request by the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has continued the practice yearly as part of his administration’s commitment to indigenous values and religious inclusivity.
Aregbe praised the governor for supporting the celebration and credited traditional rulers and keepers of Yoruba culture with preserving the heritage.
He said governments change but cultural custodians carry on the traditions.
The 2026 celebration will include prayers, rituals, processions, drumming and cultural displays honoring the Òrìṣà.
The Association of African Traditional Religion Nigeria and Overseas will coordinate the activities.
Aregbe urged people to celebrate peacefully and respectfully, saying the event promotes cultural pride and unity.
He described the event as belonging to everyone in Lagos, regardless of their religious beliefs, because heritage has no single denomination.
