Lagos state to declare public holiday as date emerges

Published in Business and Finance on Sunday, August 17th 2025 at 1:39 GMT by legit
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One of the biggest metropolitan areas in Africa, Lagos state, will declare a public holiday in August. Legit.ng has noted the date the holiday will fall on.

Lagos State Declares Public Holiday: Reason Emerges Amid Growing Calls for Cultural Recognition

In a significant move that underscores the Lagos State Government's commitment to promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has officially declared a public holiday for residents of the state. The announcement, which has sparked widespread discussions across social media and traditional platforms, highlights the administration's efforts to honor traditional practices and foster harmony among the state's diverse population. This declaration comes at a time when there is increasing advocacy for the recognition of indigenous customs in Nigeria's most populous city, known for its vibrant mix of ethnicities and religions.

The public holiday is set for Monday, August 21, 2023, and is specifically dedicated to the celebration of Isese Day, a day earmarked for traditional worshippers and adherents of Yoruba indigenous religion. Isese Day, which translates to "Tradition Day" in Yoruba, is a cultural observance that allows practitioners to commemorate their ancestral heritage, perform rituals, and engage in festivities that preserve the rich tapestry of Yoruba traditions. This marks the first time the Lagos State Government has formally recognized Isese Day as a public holiday, setting a precedent that could influence other states in the Southwest region and beyond.

According to an official statement from the state's Head of Service, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola, the decision was made in response to persistent appeals from traditional rulers, religious leaders, and cultural advocates who have long pushed for the institutionalization of such a day. The statement emphasized that the holiday is not only a nod to cultural preservation but also a step towards ensuring equity among various religious groups in the state. "The declaration of work-free day for Isese adherents is a demonstration of our commitment to inclusivity and respect for all faiths," the statement read. It further noted that public servants and private sector employees are encouraged to participate in the celebrations, with schools and government offices remaining closed to allow full observance.

The reason for this holiday emerges from a broader context of cultural renaissance in Nigeria. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in indigenous African religions and traditions, particularly among the Yoruba people, who form a significant portion of Lagos's population. This revival is partly a reaction to the dominance of Christianity and Islam, which have historically overshadowed traditional practices. Advocates argue that recognizing Isese Day helps to de-stigmatize these indigenous beliefs, which were often marginalized during colonial times and in the post-independence era. Groups like the International Council for Ifa Religion and various Obas (traditional kings) have been at the forefront of this campaign, lobbying state governments to grant official status to the day.

Governor Sanwo-Olu's administration has positioned this move as part of its broader agenda to promote tourism and cultural heritage. Lagos, often dubbed the economic heartbeat of Nigeria, boasts numerous historical sites tied to Yoruba traditions, such as the Ooni's Palace connections and various shrines. By declaring the holiday, the government aims to boost local tourism, encouraging both residents and visitors to explore these cultural landmarks. Events planned for Isese Day include parades, traditional dances, storytelling sessions, and rituals at designated venues across the state, from the bustling streets of Ikeja to the serene communities in Epe and Badagry.

Reactions to the announcement have been mixed but largely positive. Supporters hail it as a victory for cultural pluralism, with many taking to social media to express gratitude. For instance, prominent Yoruba activist and cultural promoter, Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon, praised the governor for "listening to the voice of the people and honoring our ancestors." On platforms like Twitter and Facebook, hashtags such as #IseseDay and #LagosCulturalHeritage have trended, with users sharing personal stories of how traditional practices have shaped their identities. Some have even called for the federal government to consider national recognition of similar days to promote unity in diversity.

However, not everyone is entirely on board. Critics, particularly from conservative religious quarters, have raised concerns that prioritizing one cultural observance could alienate other groups. Questions have been posed about whether similar holidays will be extended to other ethnic or religious festivals, such as those for Igbo or Hausa traditions. Additionally, there are logistical worries: with Lagos's notorious traffic and economic hustle, a mid-week holiday could disrupt business operations, especially for small-scale traders who rely on daily income. The government has addressed these by assuring that essential services, including security, healthcare, and transportation, will remain operational to minimize disruptions.

This declaration aligns with similar actions in neighboring states. For example, Osun State, often regarded as the cradle of Yoruba culture, has long observed Isese Day as a public holiday, with elaborate festivals drawing international attention. Oyo and Ogun states have also made moves in this direction, indicating a regional trend towards embracing indigenous identities. In Lagos, the holiday is expected to foster greater social cohesion, especially in a city where rapid urbanization has sometimes eroded traditional values.

From a historical perspective, Isese Day traces its roots to ancient Yoruba cosmology, which reveres deities like Oduduwa, the progenitor of the Yoruba race, and Orunmila, the god of wisdom. Celebrations typically involve offerings, drumming, and communal feasts, symbolizing renewal and gratitude to the ancestors. In modern times, these practices have evolved to include educational workshops on Yoruba history, aimed at younger generations who might otherwise lose touch with their heritage amid globalization and Western influences.

The economic implications are noteworthy as well. Cultural events like this can stimulate local economies through increased patronage of artisans, food vendors, and performers. The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture has already outlined plans to integrate Isese Day into its annual calendar, potentially attracting tourists from across Africa and the diaspora. This could position Lagos as a hub for African cultural tourism, rivaling destinations like Senegal's Goree Island or Ethiopia's Lalibela.

In his personal message accompanying the announcement, Governor Sanwo-Olu urged Lagosians to use the day for reflection and unity. "Let us celebrate our differences and build a Lagos where every culture thrives," he stated. This sentiment resonates in a state that prides itself on being a melting pot, home to over 21 million people from various backgrounds.

As Nigeria grapples with issues of identity and national cohesion, this public holiday serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge systems. It also opens the door for further dialogues on how traditional practices can coexist with contemporary governance and development. For many, August 21, 2023, will not just be a day off work but a milestone in the journey towards a more inclusive society.

In summary, the emergence of this reason—honoring Isese Day—reflects a deliberate policy shift towards cultural equity. As the celebrations approach, anticipation builds, with hopes that this initiative will inspire similar recognitions nationwide, ultimately enriching Nigeria's cultural landscape. (Word count: 1,028)

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Lagos state to declare public holiday as date emerges

Lagos State Declares Public Holiday: Reason Emerges Amid Growing Calls for Cultural Recognition