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The Lagos State Government has declared Wednesday, August 20, a public holiday as more than three million residents are expected to participate in this year’s edition of Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day, an annual celebration of Yoruba heritage, spirituality, and cultural pride.
A Celebration of Tradition
In a statement released on Monday, Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Arts, Culture and Tourism, described Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day as “a living expression of our traditions and a celebration of Yoruba spirituality as an important part of Nigeria’s cultural and religious landscape.”
The event will feature prayers, rituals, processions, and other traditional activities dedicated to the worship of the Òrìṣà (deities). Government offices, schools, and many private businesses across Lagos are expected to shut down, giving residents the opportunity to fully participate.
Why Isese Day Matters
Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day, widely observed across southwestern Nigeria, has grown into one of the most anticipated cultural festivals in the country. For many, it is more than a public holiday. It is a chance to reconnect with ancestral roots, celebrate indigenous knowledge systems, and showcase Yoruba culture to the world.
“This is not just a holiday. It is an opportunity for millions of Lagosians to reconnect with their roots, appreciate ancestral heritage, and experience the beauty of our cultural practices that continue to shape our identity as a people,” Aregbe said.
Calls for Peaceful Celebration
The Lagos State Government has urged participants to celebrate peacefully, emphasizing that the festival should remain a symbol of harmony and respect.
“With three million voices coming together in honour of tradition, Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day goes beyond festivities. It is history, faith, and cultural pride expressed in unity. Lagos remains a beacon of togetherness, where every heritage finds its place,” Aregbe added.
A Regional Festival of Unity
Similar declarations of public holidays have been made in neighbouring states including Oyo and Ogun, signaling a collective recognition of Yoruba cultural values. Across the region, communities are preparing for colourful displays of tradition that highlight music, dance, spirituality, and indigenous beliefs.
As Lagos prepares to welcome millions for this year’s Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day, the festival stands as a reminder of the enduring power of culture to unite people across generations. While rooted in spirituality, the event has also become a cultural showcase with potential to strengthen tourism, boost local economies, and deepen respect for Nigeria’s indigenous traditions.
With the growing recognition of Yoruba spirituality on both local and international stages, Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day 2025 promises to be not just a day of celebration, but a defining moment for cultural identity and pride in Lagos and beyond.
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