On August 16, 2026, the Lagos State Government used its official X account to explain the meaning and significance of Isese, pushing back against what it described as widespread misconceptions about Yoruba traditional culture. The post, published by the verified handle @followlasg, came as the state counted down to the annual Isese Day celebration, with workers watching closely for a possible work-free day.
Lagos Government Breaks Down the Meaning of Isese
The government broke down the word "Isese" linguistically and culturally. According to the post, "Ìṣè" means practice, work, or a way of doing something, while "ṣe" means to do. Combined, "Ìsèṣè" translates to tradition, custom, or the established way of doing things. The government described Isese as a system of beliefs, customs, values, and cultural heritage passed down across generations.
The post framed Isese around four pillars: culture, heritage, values, and the future. It used the tagline "Let's value it. Let's live it." The government urged Lagos residents across all five IBILE divisions—Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe—to approach the celebration with pride rather than prejudice.
Lagos Defends Traditional Culture Against Misconceptions
"Isese is not outdated. Isese is not division. Isese is our language. Our values. Our festivals. Our way of life," the post read. The government said its goal for August was to encourage residents to learn from their culture rather than from assumptions, and called on Lagosians to protect and celebrate what it called a defining part of Yoruba identity.
In a related development, the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture (LSCAC) and the Association of African Traditional Religion of Nigeria and Overseas (AATREN) jointly organised a preparatory seminar ahead of the 2026 Isese Day celebration. The event was held at Akowanjo Playing Ground, Ajako Bus Stop, Shasha, Alimosho, Lagos. The seminar centred on the theme "The Role of Nigeria in World Culture Development" and drew traditional rulers, cultural leaders, and stakeholders in African Traditional Religion.
Lagos Declares Holiday for Isese Day 2026
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Lagos governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu declared Thursday, August 20, 2026, a holiday for all public servants in the state for the 2026 Isese Day celebration. The decision was communicated through an official circular signed by the Head of Service, Bode Agoro, on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. The circular was addressed to accounting officers and top functionaries across ministries, departments, local councils, agencies, and parastatals in the state.
Workers in Lagos are now watching closely as the annual observance means a work-free day for residents across the state, reinforcing the government's commitment to celebrating Yoruba cultural heritage.
