LAGOS — The Lagos State Government has declared Thursday, August 20, 2026, a work-free day to enable residents and visitors to fully participate in this year’s Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day celebrations.
The announcement was made in a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, on Wednesday.
An official circular signed by the Head of Service, Bode Agoro, on Tuesday, August 18, confirmed the directive for all public servants, political appointees, and government workers across ministries, departments, agencies, local governments, and parastatals.
Government offices in the state will remain closed on Thursday. Normal work is scheduled to resume on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 8:00 a.m.
Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day, which celebrates Yoruba traditional religion, culture, and indigenous heritage, is expected to draw more than three million participants this year. Organisers describe it as potentially the largest single gathering of traditional worshippers anywhere in the world.
Aregbe emphasised the cultural significance of the day, stating: “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.”
He noted that the Yoruba people, estimated at more than 55 million globally, continue to preserve and transmit their cultural practices across generations. Similar observances take place among Yoruba-descended communities in Cuba, Brazil, and parts of the Caribbean.
“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,” Aregbe said.
The celebration marks the climax of a week-long programme of traditional activities. It has been observed as a work-free day in Lagos since 2023, following a request by the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has upheld the practice annually as part of his administration’s THEMES+ agenda, which prioritises the promotion of indigenous heritage and religious inclusiveness.
This year’s events will feature traditional prayers, rituals, processions, drumming, and other cultural performances dedicated to the Òrìṣà. The activities are being coordinated by the Association of African Traditional Religion Nigeria and Overseas.
Aregbe expressed appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his consistent support, noting that it takes conviction for a leader to stand publicly with heritage without hesitation.
Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day is recognised as a regional holiday in several southwestern states, including Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, and Osun. It is not a nationwide federal public holiday.
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