At least four states in Nigeria’s southwest have officially designated Wednesday, August 20, as a public holiday for workers in recognition of Isese Day, an annual celebration dedicated to honoring Yoruba traditional religion and cultural heritage.
Isese Day is a significant observance for those following traditional religion in Yorubaland. Celebrated every year, it highlights the community’s vibrant customs and historical values.
Recently, several state governments in the region have embraced Isese Day as an annual tradition, acknowledging its influence on the cultural and societal identity within their states.
Here are the southwest states that have officially announced a public holiday:
Lagos State
The Lagos State government revealed that Isese Day for 2025 will fall on Wednesday, August 20. To mark the occasion, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has approved a work-free day for all public sector employees in Lagos.
This announcement was shared through a circular from the office of the Head of Service, Huiel Bode Agoro (Ref: CIR/HOS/’25/Vol.I/064), emphasizing the importance of commemorating Isese Day within the state.
Oyo State: Governor Seyi Makinde’s Declaration
Governor Seyi Makinde has also declared August 20 a public holiday for Oyo State workers, joining in the Isese Day celebrations for 2025. He encouraged residents to use this period to pray for the ongoing peace, unity, and progress of Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.
This directive was confirmed in a circular signed by Professor Olanike Adeyemo, the state’s Secretary to the Government, dated Monday, August 18.
Source: Twitter
Ogun State: Governor Dapo Abiodun’s Initiative
Ogun State, under the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, is also observing Isese Day as a public holiday on August 20, making it the third southwestern state to do so.
Mr. Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser to the Governor on Information and Strategy, stated that recognizing Isese Day with a day off aligns with the state’s commitment to its people’s cultural values.
Osun State Honors Isese Day
Osun State became the fourth in the region to declare August 20 a work-free day in observance of Isese Day. According to Abdul Rasheed Aderibigbe, the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration aims to highlight the importance of Yoruba heritage through this annual celebration.
Isese Day now stands as a symbol of cultural pride and unity, embedding itself in the tradition of the southwest and strengthening Yoruba identity.
Federal Government Announces Holiday in Memory of Buhari
In a separate development, the federal government previously declared a public holiday to honor the late President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away at a London hospital.
Officials remarked that the holiday was intended to commemorate Buhari’s leadership, his contributions to democracy, and his lasting impact on Nigeria’s national growth and governance.
