By Ayodele Quadri, Lagos Times Correspondent
LAGOS, NIGERIA — The Lagos State Government has declared Thursday, August 20, 2026, a work-free day across the state for public servants and political appointees to mark the annual Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day celebrations.
The official directive, issued by the Head of Service on behalf of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, aims to preserve Yoruba cultural heritage, support traditional institutions, and promote peaceful coexistence. State offices will close on Thursday and resume full operations on Friday, August 21, at 8:00 a.m.
Over Three Million Worshippers Expected
Speaking on the upcoming festivities, Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Hon. Idris Aregbe, highlighted the significance of the event, describing Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day as more than just a calendar holiday.
Over three million traditional worshippers and tourists are anticipated to attend activities culminating a week-long celebration of indigenous Yoruba spirituality and customs.
“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 landscape. When the drums sound in Lagos on Thursday, they answer drums in Havana, in Salvador, in Port of Spain… Lagos is standing at the centre of a global heritage.”
— Hon. Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser on Tourism, Arts, and Culture
┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ 2026 LAGOS ÌṢẸ̀ṢẸ DAY AT A GLANCE │
├────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ • Official Date : Thursday, August 20, 2026 │
│ • Public Holiday Scope: Public Servants & State Appointees │
│ • Resume Work Date : Friday, August 21, 2026 (8:00 AM) │
│ │
│ • Expected Attendance : 3 Million+ Traditional Worshippers & Tourists │
│ • Core Objective : Preservation of Yoruba Culture & Spirituality │
└────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
Background & Legislative Recognition
First designated as a dedicated work-free day in Lagos in August 2023 following petitions from the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day aligns with constitutional provisions guaranteeing freedom of thought, conscience, and religion.
The day honors Yoruba traditional practitioners and seeks to pass cultural identity, values, and folklore down to younger generations amidst global modernization. Similar regional holidays are being observed across South-Western states, including Ogun, Osun, and Oyo.
