Lagos State Government has declared Thursday a work-free day for public servants, political appointees and other state officials as the state marks the 2026 Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day celebration.
The government said this year’s event is expected to draw more than three million traditional worshippers and residents, making it one of the largest gatherings of traditional worshippers in the world.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, said Ìṣẹ̀ṣe represents more than a public holiday, describing it as a living expression of Yoruba tradition and spirituality.
“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 in a statement issued on Wednesday.
He noted that the Yoruba population is estimated at more than 55 million globally, with communities outside Africa continuing to preserve and practise aspects of Yoruba culture. He pointed to traditional festivals in Cuba, Brazil and the Caribbean as examples of the culture’s global reach.
Aregbe said the annual celebration in Lagos connects with Yoruba cultural communities around the world. He described Lagos as a major centre for the preservation and celebration of Yoruba heritage.
Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day marks the end of a week-long programme of traditional activities and has been observed as a work-free day in Lagos since 2023, following a request by the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has maintained the policy each year as part of his administration’s emphasis on indigenous values and religious inclusion under the THEMES+ Agenda.
This year’s programme will include prayers, rituals, processions, drumming and cultural displays dedicated to the Òrìṣà. The activities are being coordinated by the Association of African Traditional Religion Nigeria and Overseas (AATREN).
Aregbe thanked Sanwo-Olu, the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu I, traditional rulers, chiefs, Babaláwo, Ìyánífá and other custodians of Yoruba heritage for supporting the preservation of the tradition. He also called on participants to observe the celebrations peacefully and respectfully.
