Sanwo-Olu urges Lagosians to preserve Yoruba heritage as Ìṣẹ̀ṣe day holds

By Adebola Muili

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged Lagosians to preserve the state’s rich cultural heritage and pass its values and traditions on to future generations as the state celebrates this year’s Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day.

Sanwo-Olu made the call in a message posted on his verified social media handle today, Thursday, August 20, 2026, as traditional worshippers and cultural enthusiasts across Lagos join in the annual celebration of indigenous Yoruba heritage.

The Governor described culture as an important part of the people’s identity, stressing that the values and traditions handed down through generations must not be allowed to disappear.

“Today, we celebrate Isese Day, honouring our heritage, traditions and the rich cultural identity passed down through generations,” Sanwo-Olu stated.

He said the people have a responsibility to preserve their cultural heritage and ensure its transmission to future generations.

“Our culture is an important part of who we are, and we must never lose sight of the values and traditions that connect us to our heritage,” he added.

The Governor also extended his goodwill to all those marking the celebration, wishing them a peaceful and meaningful Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day.

“Thank you for keeping our traditions alive and contributing to the vibrant spirit of Lagos,” he said.

The celebration is being marked across Lagos with various cultural and traditional activities, as adherents of African Traditional Religion and other members of the public honour indigenous traditions and cultural identity.

The Lagos State Government had declared Thursday, August 20, a work-free day to enable residents to participate in the celebration.

The annual observance has also provided a platform for traditional institutions, cultural groups and communities to showcase Yoruba customs, music, dance and other forms of indigenous cultural expression.

Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Day is increasingly recognised as an important occasion for cultural preservation, particularly amid growing efforts to promote indigenous identity and cultural tourism.

As Lagos joins other Yoruba communities in Nigeria and across the world to mark the occasion, the Governor’s message reinforces the call for the preservation of the heritage and traditions that continue to shape the cultural identity of the people.