Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu declared Thursday, August 20, 2026, as a work-free day across the state to mark the annual Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day celebration. The holiday, announced by Idris Aregbe, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, will allow residents and visitors to participate in traditional activities expected to attract over three million traditional worshippers.
Background of the Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day holiday
Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day has been observed as a public holiday in Lagos since 2023. The recognition followed a request from the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, who sought official acknowledgment for the celebration. Governor Sanwo-Olu has continued the tradition as part of his administration's focus on promoting indigenous culture and religious inclusion under the THEMES+ Agenda.
During a media briefing in Lagos, Aregbe described Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day as more than just a day off work, saying it represents Yoruba spirituality, identity and cultural heritage. "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.
Global significance of the celebration
Aregbe highlighted the global reach of Yoruba traditions, noting that Yoruba communities around the world continue to preserve their customs. "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. Lagos is not observing a local holiday. Lagos is standing at the centre of a global heritage," he said.
The 2026 celebration will feature traditional prayers, rituals, processions, drumming and cultural performances dedicated to different Òrìṣà. The activities are being coordinated by the Association of African Traditional Religion Nigeria and Overseas.
Call for peaceful participation
Aregbe called on participants to celebrate peacefully and respectfully, emphasizing that the event is about cultural pride and unity. "Three million voices rising in honour of tradition is not noise. It is history, faith and cultural pride in harmony," he said. He also noted that the celebration is open to everyone, regardless of religious background. "Whether you worship in a mosque, a church or a grove, Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day belongs to you, because heritage has no denomination. Lagos remains the city where every heritage finds its place," Aregbe added.
For Lagos workers, the declaration means that Thursday, August 20, 2026, is a public holiday, with government offices and many businesses expected to observe the work-free day.
