Lagos Declares Tuesday, August 20, 2024, a Public Holiday for Isese Day

The Lagos State Government has declared Tuesday, August 20, 2024, a work-free day for public servants in honor of this year’s Isese Day celebration.

This marks the first time the state has designated a public holiday for the event.

A circular issued by the Head of Service, Bode Agoro, announced the holiday, stating that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu approved the decision to support traditional institutions and promote the preservation of cultural heritage.

Public servants are expected to resume work on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at 8:00 a.m.

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The circular emphasized the government’s commitment to giving necessary support to traditional practices and ensuring the promotion of indigenous traditions in the state.

Similar public holidays have also been declared in other South-West states, including Ogun and Ondo, to mark the annual celebration.

Although the United Nations has declared August 20 as World Traditional Religion (Isese) Day, this is the first time Lagos State has officially recognized the day as a public holiday.

Isese Day celebrates Yoruba traditions and religion, featuring cultural displays, festivals, parades, lectures, and traditional attire. The celebration is not only observed in South-West Nigeria but also by Yoruba diaspora communities worldwide.