Isese Day: Lagos, Ogun Declare Wednesday Public Holiday

Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his Ogun State counterpart, Prince Dapo Abiodun, have declared Wednesday, 20th August, 2025, a work-free day to mark this year’s Isese Day celebration.

The declaration is contained in a circular marked No 064, “Commemoration of Year 2025 Isese Day – Declaration of Work-free Day,” issued yesterday by the state’s Head of Service, Bode Agoro.

The circular said the holiday was declared to show Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to supporting traditional institutions and enhancing the preservation of cultural heritage.

It, however, directed public servants to resume work on Thursday by 8:00 am.

The circular reads, “It is hereby notified for general information that this Year’s Isese Day Celebration will be held on Wednesday, 20th August 2025.

“In reaffirming commitment of the state government towards promoting our Indigenous culture, tradition and preserving heritage, while providing necessary support for traditional institutions in the state, Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has declared that Wednesday, 20th August 2025, is a  Work-Free Day for Lagos State Public Servants in commemoration of the day.

“Consequently, work resumes on Thursday, 21st August, 2025, at 8:00 a.m.

“Accordingly, all Accounting Officers are enjoined to note the contents of this Circular and give it the deserved Service-wide publicity.”

In the same vein, Governor Abiodun, in a statement issued on Monday and signed by Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Information and Strategy, the holiday complies with the Bill earlier passed by the State House of Assembly (OGHA), which has since year 2023 signed into law by the governor.

The statement said the day has been set aside to celebrate the richness of Yoruba culture, religion, and traditions.

Akinmade, in the statement, further explained that the introduction of “Isese Day” as a public holiday reflects Governor Abiodun’s recognition of the vital role that Yoruba heritage and practices play in the state’s identity and cultural landscape.

“Isese” Day is to afford adherents of the Yoruba religion the needed opportunity “to honour their ancestors, engage in traditional practices, and promote the values and teachings inherent in their spiritual beliefs”.

“The celebration not only fosters a sense of community among practitioners but also invites the broader society to appreciate and respect the rich cultural tapestry that the Yoruba tradition contributes to Nigeria,” the statement said.