- The celebration promotes community cohesion while broadening respect for Yoruba traditional practices among non-adherents across Nigeria.
The Ogun and Oyo state governments have declared Wednesday, August 20, 2025, as a public holiday in honour of Isese Day.
Isese Day is dedicated to celebrating Yoruba culture, spirituality, and indigenous traditions, and has in recent years been officially recognised in Lagos State to promote inclusivity and cultural preservation.
Special adviser to the Ogun governor on information and strategy, Kayode Akinmade, made the announcement in a statement on Monday.
He explained that the festival gives adherents of the faith the opportunity to honour ancestors and uphold their spiritual values.
“The celebration is not only a platform for practitioners of the Yoruba religion to uphold their beliefs but also a reminder to wider society of the contributions of Yoruba traditions to Nigeria’s cultural landscape,” he said.
Akinmade added that the day fosters unity among communities and strengthens respect for the diverse spiritual heritage of the state.
The government encouraged residents to use the holiday to embrace cultural pride and safeguard traditions for future generations.
OYO ANNOUNCES WORK-FREE DAY
In a similar move, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State declared Wednesday, August 20, 2025, a work-free day.
The secretary to the state government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo, announced this in a statement on Monday.
Chief press secretary to the governor, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, circulated the statement to journalists.
Makinde urged citizens to seize the opportunity to pray for peace, unity, and stability in the state and across Nigeria.
FREE DAY IN LAGOS
Earlier today, the Lagos state government declared Wednesday, August 20 as a work-free day for public servants in the state to mark the annual Isese Day celebration.
“Work resumes on Thursday, 21st August, 2025 at 8:00 a.m,” the state added.
The state government reiterated its commitment to the celebration of culture and preservation of the Yoruba tradition and heritage.
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