Ogun Declares August 20 Public Holiday For Isese Day

Ogun Declares August 20 Public Holiday for Isese Day

The Ogun State Government has declared Thursday, August 20, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate this year’s Isese Day, a celebration of Yoruba traditional religion, culture and heritage.

The declaration was announced by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, who said the decision reflects the state government’s commitment to preserving Yoruba culture, heritage and traditional values.

Isese Day provides adherents of Yoruba traditional religion with an opportunity to honour their ancestors, observe traditional rites and promote the values and teachings associated with their spiritual and cultural practices. The celebration also encourages a wider appreciation of Yoruba heritage and traditional institutions.

The August 20 holiday was formally established in Ogun in 2023, following a resolution of the Ogun State House of Assembly and approval by Governor Dapo Abiodun. It has since become an annual work-free day in the state. The government urged residents to celebrate peacefully and responsibly while respecting the beliefs, rights and practices of people from other religious backgrounds.

The annual observance highlights the growing formal recognition of indigenous Yoruba culture and traditional religion in southwestern Nigeria, while also promoting religious tolerance and cultural preservation. Government offices and other public institutions in Ogun will observe Thursday as a work-free day as residents mark Isese Day and celebrate Yoruba cultural and spiritual heritage.