Nigerians may have two public holidays to look forward to in August 2026, with one cultural celebration expected to be observed in parts of the country and a religious holiday potentially declared nationwide.
The first is Isese Day, scheduled for Thursday, August 20, a day dedicated to Yoruba traditional religion and indigenous culture.
The second is Eid ul-Mawlid, tentatively expected on Wednesday, August 26, to commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad. However, the date is still subject to confirmation because the Islamic calendar is based on the sighting of the crescent moon.
Isese Day: Four states expected to observe holiday
Isese Day is commemorated every year on August 20 by traditional worshippers through prayers, dances, rituals and other cultural activities dedicated to their deities.
In 2026, four Southwest states — Oyo, Lagos, Ogun and Osun — are expected to observe the occasion as a public holiday.
Osun has the longest record of officially recognising Isese Day among the four states. Former governor Rauf Aregbesola declared August 20 a public holiday for traditional worshippers in the state as far back as 2013.
Oyo and Lagos followed in 2023. In Oyo, Governor Seyi Makinde approved the holiday after traditionalists renewed calls for official recognition the previous year.
In Lagos, the decision followed a request from the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs to the state House of Assembly.
Ogun also joined the list in July 2023 after the state House of Assembly passed a resolution recognising August 20 as Isese Cultural Day.
The resolution was titled “H.R. No.008/OG/2023: Observation of Isese Day as Work-Free Day in Ogun State.” It was moved by House Majority Leader Yusuf Sheriff and seconded by Minority Leader Lukmon Adeleye.
The lawmakers explained that the resolution was aimed at promoting the state’s cultural heritage, preserving traditions for future generations and encouraging tourism.
Ondo and Ekiti remain the two Southwest states yet to officially recognise August 20 as a public holiday.
Eid ul-Mawlid 2026: National holiday awaiting confirmation
Unlike Isese Day, which is observed only in states that have officially recognised it, Eid ul-Mawlid is a national religious holiday declared by the federal government.
The holiday commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad and has been tentatively placed on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.
If the federal government confirms the date, workers across Nigeria could enjoy another work-free day just six days after the Isese Day holiday.
However, the Eid ul-Mawlid date remains subject to official confirmation because it depends on the sighting of the crescent moon in accordance with the Islamic lunar calendar.
Both proposed holidays fall within Nigeria’s third quarter, which runs from July 1 to September 30.
For residents of Oyo, Lagos, Ogun and Osun, Thursday, August 20, is expected to be a work-free day in observance of Isese Day. This could then be followed by another nationwide break on Wednesday, August 26, if the federal government officially declares Eid ul-Mawlid a public holiday.
Beyond their religious and cultural significance, the holidays could also provide opportunities for Nigerians to spend time with family, travel and participate in cultural tourism activities across the country.
