The Lagos, Ogun and Oyo State governments have declared Thursday, August 20, a work-free day to mark Isese Day, an annual celebration of Yoruba traditional religion, culture and indigenous heritage.

The declarations will allow public servants and residents to participate in prayers, traditional rites, processions, drumming and other cultural activities marking the occasion.

In Lagos, the government said more than three million people were expected to take part in this year’s celebration, describing it as potentially one of the world’s largest gatherings of African Traditional Religion adherents.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, said Isese should be viewed as a living cultural and spiritual tradition rather than simply a public holiday.

“Isese is not a relic. It is a living expression of our traditions,” Aregbe said, adding that Yoruba cultural practices had survived across generations and continued to have a global presence, including in parts of the Caribbean and South America.

Lagos has observed August 20 as a work-free day since 2023, following a request by the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs.

In Ogun, the government said the holiday was intended to preserve Yoruba culture and traditional values. The state formally recognised August 20 as a public holiday in 2023 after approval by Governor Dapo Abiodun and a resolution of the state House of Assembly.

Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde also congratulated traditional worshippers and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to religious inclusiveness. The state government said the holiday would enable residents to participate in the celebration and pray for peace and stability.

The three states urged residents to celebrate peacefully while respecting people of other faiths. Oyo also highlighted the potential of cultural tourism and traditional heritage to contribute to economic development.