The Ogun State Government has declared Thursday, August 20, 2026, a public holiday in commemoration of this year’s Isese Day, reaffirming its commitment to the preservation and promotion of Yoruba culture, heritage and traditional values.
The government said the holiday would give adherents of Yoruba traditional religion an opportunity to honour their ancestors, observe customary rites and celebrate the teachings and values associated with their spiritual and cultural practices.
The declaration was contained in a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Information and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade.
“Isese Day provides an opportunity for adherents of the Yoruba traditional religion to honour their ancestors, observe traditional rites and promote the values and teachings embedded in their spiritual and cultural practices,” the government said.
Beyond religious observance, the state said the celebration was also intended to promote cultural understanding and strengthen bonds among communities.
According to the statement, Isese Day offers the wider society an opportunity to appreciate and respect the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.
“The celebration also promotes a sense of community among practitioners, while providing an opportunity for the wider society to appreciate and respect the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people,” it added.
The government recalled that August 20 was formally recognised as a public holiday in Ogun State in 2023 following a resolution of the Ogun State House of Assembly and the subsequent approval of Governor Dapo Abiodun.
It said the continued observance reflects the administration’s recognition of the role played by culture and traditional institutions in sustaining the identity of the state and promoting social cohesion.
The state government urged residents to celebrate peacefully and responsibly while respecting the rights, beliefs and practices of other citizens.
It also encouraged residents to use the occasion to promote tolerance, peaceful coexistence and greater understanding of the diverse traditions that make up Ogun State.
With the holiday now formally declared, attention will turn to communities and traditional worshippers across the state as they mark Isese Day with rites, cultural activities and celebrations centred on Yoruba heritage and spirituality.
