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Thursday, August 20 Declared Public Holiday for All Workers

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Lagos governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has declared Thursday, August 20, 2026, a holiday for all public servants in the state for the 2026 Isese Day celebration.

The decision was communicated through an official circular signed by the Head of Service, Bode Agoro, on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, and addressed to accounting officers and top functionaries across ministries, departments, local councils, agencies, and parastatals in the state. The circular was sighted by Legit.ng on Tuesday night, August 18.

Sanwo-Olu’s reason for holiday declaration Gboyega Akosile, the spokesperson to Governor Sanwo-Olu, confirmed the authenticity of the circular to Legit.ng.

The circular tied the work-free day to Lagos state’s broader commitment to cultural promotion and heritage preservation.

It read: “In reaffirming the commitment of the state government towards promoting our indigenous culture, tradition and preserving our heritage, while providing necessary support for traditional Institutions in the State, Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has declared Thursday, 20th August, 2026 as Work Free Day for Lagos State Public Servants in commemoration of the Day.”

The directive confirmed that government offices will remain shut on that day, with normal operations resuming the following morning.

The circular added: “Consequently, work resumes on Friday, 21st August, 2026 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.’

Use Day is an annual event dedicated to celebrating Yoruba indigenous culture, spirituality, and traditional practices.

In recent years, Lagos state has formally recognised the day as part of efforts to promote cultural inclusivity and preserve the heritage of its people. The holiday is observed each year on August 20 across Yoruba-speaking communities.