Lagos State Government has declared Wednesday, August 20, 2025, as a public holiday for its workforce in recognition of Isese Day, the yearly festival honouring Yoruba heritage and traditional practices.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu granted approval for the holiday to allow adherents of indigenous faiths and members of the public to actively engage in the cultural festivities, which highlight the preservation of Yoruba identity and values.
Details of the holiday were conveyed in a circular signed by the Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, and dated August 18, 2025.
The directive, distributed across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to safeguarding traditional institutions.
The circular stated: “Mr. Governor has approved that Wednesday, 20th August 2025 be declared a work-free day for public servants in the state. Consequently, work resumes on Thursday, 21st August 2025 at 8:00 a.m.”
Permanent Secretaries and accounting officers were further instructed to ensure the information is widely disseminated across their respective offices.
Isese Day, observed annually in Lagos, is dedicated to honouring Yoruba spiritual and cultural traditions while promoting unity and cultural pride.
Meanwhile, the governments of Oyo and Ogun states have also announced August 20 as a holiday to commemorate the celebration.
