By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
The Lagos State Government has declared Thursday, August 20, 2026, a work-free day for public servants in the state to enable them participate in this year’s Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day celebration.
The declaration was announced on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, as the state prepares for the annual celebration of Yoruba indigenous culture, spirituality and traditions.
According to the state government, the work-free day is intended to facilitate the participation of residents and visitors in the activities lined up for the celebration.
Aregbe described Ìṣẹ̀ṣe as more than a public holiday, stressing that it represents a living expression of Yoruba traditions and spirituality and forms an important part of Nigeria’s cultural and religious heritage.
He said the 2026 celebration is expected to attract more than three million traditional worshippers and visitors, making it one of the largest gatherings associated with the annual observance.
“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 and religious landscape,” Aregbe said.
He further noted that Yoruba culture has a global presence, with significant communities outside Africa continuing to preserve and celebrate their heritage.
Aregbe said the celebration in Lagos would therefore have significance beyond the state, describing the city as a major centre for the promotion of Yoruba cultural heritage.
Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day marks the culmination of a week-long programme of traditional activities across Lagos and is observed annually on August 20.
The work-free observance has been adopted by the Lagos State Government since 2023, following a request by the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
The 2026 declaration continues the state government’s policy of recognising and supporting indigenous culture, traditional institutions and the preservation of Yoruba heritage.
Normal government activities are expected to resume after the work-free day.