LAGOS – Chairmen of Lagos Mainland Local Government and Iru-Victoria Island Local Council Development Area of Lagos State on Thursday felicitated traditional worshippers and traditional rulers on Isese Day celebration.
The Chairman of Lagos Mainland council area, Mr Jabrel Emilagba, and the Chairman of Iru Victoria Island council area, Mrs Oluwakemi Alabi, made the felicitation in interviews with newsmen in Lagos.
Reports that Lagos State Government declared Thursday work free as more than three million residents are expected to join in the celebration.
The chairmen said that Isese Day celebration was important for recognition and preservation of the rich cultural heritage, history, traditions and identity of Yoruba people.
Alabi congratulated the Oniru of Iru Kingdom, Oba Omogbolahan Lawal, and Oba Adio Yusuf, the Onisiwo of Onisiwo Kingdom comprising Agbagbo, Tomaro, Tarkwa Bay and the environs.
She also felicitated chiefs, community leaders and residents of Iru-Victoria Island council area, as well as other Yorubas on the occasion of the 2026 Isese Day celebration.
Alabi reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to working closely with the traditional institution, community leaders, and othersr in delivering people-centred governance.
The chairman added that her administration would advance sustainable development across Iru-Victoria Island council area.
“She said: ” This year’s celebration with the theme, “Return of the Deities (Ìpadàbọ̀ Àwọn Irúmọ̀lè)”, provides an opportunity to reflect on our roots while strengthening the values that unite us as a people.
“Our culture remains a powerful instrument for unity, peaceful coexistence, community development and good governance.
“Preservation of our indigenous heritage aligns with our administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, community engagement and promotion of values that bring people together.”
Alabi acknowledged the roles of traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders in maintaining peace, stability and cultural identity across the council area and the entire Lagos State.
She said that traditional institutions remained important partners in promoting peace, unity, development and responsible leadership.
Alabi called on the residents, particularly young people, to embrace and promote the values embedded in Yoruba culture, while remaining committed to peace, unity, respect and community development.
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On his part, Emilagba said he was delighted to join the people of Lagos Mainland and the entire Nigerians, including those in the diaspora, to celebrate the 2026 Isese Day.
The chairman described the festival as a significant occasion reminding Yoruba’s of the richness, values and enduring heritage of their indigenous culture.
Emilagba said he remained committed to supporting initiatives that would promote their cultural heritage, strengthen community bonds and create an environment where diverse traditions could thrive in peace.
“As we honour our traditions and cultural heritage, we must also recognise the importance of preserving them for generations yet unborn.
“Our culture is a vital part of our identity, and its values of unity, peace, respect, community and progress remain relevant in building a stronger society.”
The chairman prayed that the celebration would bring peace, prosperity and progress to communities in Lagos Mainland and the entire state. (NAN)
