Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has declared Thursday, August 20, 2026, a work-free day to commemorate Isese Day, a celebration dedicated to the cultural and traditional heritage of the Yoruba people.
The declaration was contained in a memo signed by the Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde, and conveyed in a statement issued by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, on Wednesday.
According to the memo, Makinde extended his felicitations to adherents of African Traditional Religion across Oyo State, Nigeria and beyond, wishing them a successful and spiritually enriching celebration.
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fairness and equal treatment across all religious groups.
Makinde expressed appreciation to traditional worshippers for their support for his administration over the past seven years.
The state government said the work-free day would enable workers and residents to fully participate in the Isese Day celebration and honour the state’s cultural heritage.
The memo stated that the holiday would also allow residents to pray for “the peace, unity, and stability of the state in particular, and the country in general.”
Isese Day is observed by adherents of Yoruba traditional religion as a period for cultural celebration, spiritual reflection and appreciation of Yoruba heritage.
Makinde introduced the official Isese Day celebration in Oyo State as part of his administration’s efforts to recognise traditional religion and promote the state’s cultural heritage.
The governor has also identified cultural tourism as a major area of economic opportunity for Oyo State, describing the state’s rich cultural heritage as one of its greatest strengths.
The work-free day is expected to allow residents and traditional worshippers across the state to participate in various Isese Day activities while celebrating Yoruba cultural traditions.
