Lagos declares August 20 holiday for Isese festival

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has declared Wednesday, August 20, 2025, as a work-free day for public servants in commemoration of the annual Isese Day celebration.

The announcement was contained in a circular signed by the Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, dated Monday, August 18, 2025, and addressed to top government functionaries across ministries, agencies, local councils, and parastatals.

According to the circular, “It is hereby notified for general information that this year’s Isese Day Celebration will hold on Wednesday, 20th August, 2025.”

Reaffirming the state government’s cultural policy, the statement stressed: “In reaffirming the commitment of the State Government towards promoting our indigenous culture, tradition and preserving our heritage, while providing necessary support for traditional Institutions in the State, Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has declared Wednesday, 20th August, 2025 as Work Free Day for Lagos State Public Servants in commemoration of the Day.”

The circular further directed that government offices will reopen the following day.

“Consequently, work resumes on Thursday, 21st August, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. Accordingly, all Accounting Officers are enjoined to note the contents of this Circular and give it the deserved Service-wide publicity,” Agoro stated.

Isese Day is dedicated to celebrating Yoruba culture, spirituality, and indigenous traditions, and has in recent years been officially recognised in Lagos State to promote inclusivity and cultural preservation, the release noted.