Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has announced that Tuesday, August 20, 2024, will be a work-free day in observance of this year's Isese Day celebration.

This announcement is detailed in a circular titled “Commemoration of Year 2024 Isese Day – Declaration of Work Free Day,” which was released on Monday by the state's Head of Service, Bode Agoro.

The circular indicates that the holiday is intended to demonstrate Sanwo-Olu’s dedication to supporting traditional institutions and promoting the preservation of cultural heritage.

Public servants are instructed to return to work on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. The circular states, “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 marks the first occasion that the Lagos State Government has designated a public holiday to celebrate Isese Day, following the United Nations’ recognition of August 20 as World Traditional Religion Day.