2026 Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day Draws Millions: As Lagos Leads Global Celebration

Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Idris Aregbe, has commended Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu for his continued support for the annual celebration of Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day in the state.

Aregbe described the governor’s decision to recognise the day as a work-free day as a demonstration of his commitment to preserving and promoting indigenous heritage.

“We thank His Excellency, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu. It takes real conviction for a leader to stand publicly with heritage, and he has done so without hesitation and without apology,” he said.

He also paid tribute to the traditional institution, particularly the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu I, as well as traditional rulers, White Cap Chiefs, Babaláwo, Ìyánífá, Olóòrìṣà and other custodians of Yoruba culture.

Aregbe acknowledged their role in preserving indigenous traditions, particularly during periods when traditional practices received less public recognition.

“We also bow to Kábíyèsí, the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu I, foremost custodian of Lagos culture, to all our royal fathers, our revered White Cap Chiefs, our Babaláwo and Ìyánífá, our Olóòrìṣà and every custodian and promoter who kept these rites alive when it was neither fashionable nor convenient. Governments come and go. Custodians carry the culture,” he said.

He disclosed that this year’s Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day celebration would feature prayers, traditional rituals, processions, drumming and cultural displays dedicated to the Òrìṣà.

The activities will be coordinated by the Association of African Traditional Religion Nigeria and Overseas (AATREN).

Aregbe urged participants to observe the celebration peacefully and respectfully, stressing that the event represents more than a religious gathering.

“Three million voices rising in honour of tradition is not noise. It is history, faith and cultural pride in harmony,” he said.

He added that the celebration was intended to embrace people across religious lines, saying, “Whether you worship in a mosque, a church or a grove, Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day belongs to you, because heritage has no denomination.”

According to him, the scale of the celebration further reinforces Lagos’ position as a city where diverse cultural and religious expressions can coexist.

“Lagos remains the city where every heritage finds its place,” Aregbe said.