The Ogun state government has declared August 20 as a holiday to commemorate the 2026 Isese Day.

In a statement on Wednesday, Kayode Akinmade, the special adviser on information and strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun, said the holiday proved the state government’s commitment to preserving and promoting Yoruba culture, heritage, and traditional values.

Mr Akinmade stated, “The Ogun state government has declared Thursday, August 20, 2026, as a public holiday to commemorate this year’s Isese Day celebration.

“It would be recalled that August 20 was formally declared a public holiday in Ogun State in 2023, following a resolution of the Ogun State House of Assembly and the approval of Governor Dapo Abiodun.”

He stated that Isese Day would “provide an opportunity for adherents of the Yoruba traditional religion to honour their ancestors, observe traditional rites and promote the values and teachings embedded in their spiritual and cultural practices”.

Mr Akinmade said the celebration would also foster a sense of community among practitioners and allow the wider public to appreciate and respect the Yoruba people’s rich cultural heritage.

He noted that the day’s observance demonstrated Mr Abiodun’s administration’s recognition of the important role of culture and traditional institutions in preserving the state’s identity and strengthening social cohesion.

The state government, however, urged residents to celebrate the day peacefully and responsibly, adding that they must respect the beliefs, rights, and practices of adherents of other religions.