Isese Day: Lagos Declares Tuesday Public Holiday

Gov Babajide Sanwo-Olu

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has declared Tuesday, 20 August 2024, a public holiday to mark this year’s Isese Day celebration.

The declaration is contained in a circular titled “Commemoration of Year 2024 Isese Day – Declaration of Work Free Day”, which was issued on Monday by the state’s Head of Service, Bode Agoro.

The circular said the holiday was declared to show Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to support traditional institutions, as well as enhance the preservation of cultural heritage.

It, however, directed public servants to resume work on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, by 8.00 am.

The circular reads, “It is hereby notified for general information that this Year’s Isese Day Celebration will be held on Tuesday, 20th August 2024.

“In emphasising commitment to give necessary support to traditional institutions, as well as enhance the promotion of Indigenous tradition by preserving cultural heritage, Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has approved that Tuesday, 20th August 2024, be declared a Work-Free Day for Public Servants in the State.

“Consequently, work resumes on Wednesday, 21st August, 2024 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.”

This is the first time the Lagos State Government has declared a public holiday to celebrate Isese Day, following the United Nations’ declaration of 20th August as World Traditional Religion Day.