Isese Day 2026: Ilaji Resort Hosts Historic Gathering as Thousands of Traditionalists Offer Prayers for Tinubu, Alli, Oyo and Nigeria

Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort, Akanran, Ibadan, came alive as more than 20,000 traditional worshippers, cultural custodians and enthusiasts gathered to celebrate this year’s Isese Day, in a colourful display of Yoruba heritage, spirituality and indigenous culture.

The historic celebration, hosted by the Okanlomo Oodua and Gbonka Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief (Engr.) Jubril Dotun Sanusi, featured prayers and traditional rites for the peace, progress and prosperity of Oyo State and Nigeria.

Special prayers were offered for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, seeking divine wisdom, strength and guidance for the President in the discharge of his responsibilities. Similar prayers were offered for Senator Sharafadeen Alli, Oyo State and the continued development and peaceful coexistence of Nigerians.

The gathering attracted traditional worshippers, cultural stakeholders, market leaders, artisans, community leaders, traditional rulers and members of various support groups from across Oyo State and beyond.

Call for National Recognition of Isese Day

Speaking at the event, the Araba Awo of Oyo State, Oloye Ifalere Odegbemi, called on the Federal Government to officially recognise August 20 as National Isese Day and designate it as an annual work-free day across Nigeria.

Oloye Odegbemi made the appeal through the representative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senator Sharafadeen Alli.

According to him, official recognition of Isese Day would strengthen efforts to preserve Yoruba traditional religion, indigenous knowledge, cultural heritage and the values passed down through generations.

He emphasised that traditional worshippers and custodians of indigenous beliefs constitute an important part of Nigeria’s diverse cultural identity and should be given appropriate recognition and inclusion in national cultural celebrations.

Massive Gathering of Traditional and Community Leaders

The event also witnessed the presence of several prominent traditional and community figures, including the Oniladuntan of Laduntan, HRM Oba Kamarudeen Adebowale; President of the Association of Mogajis of Ibadanland, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori; Baale Kuebi Ige; Babaloja General, Alhaji YK Abass; Iyaloja Saratu Aduke; and the President of the Yoruba Youth Council, Mogaji Alawode Rahmon Akintunde.

Other attendees included market traders, artisans, community leaders, members of JDS support groups and thousands of traditional worshippers who converged on Ilaji Resort for the annual celebration.

The colourful programme featured cultural presentations, traditional rites, prayers and other activities designed to celebrate and promote the richness of Yoruba indigenous heritage.

Jubril Dotun Sanusi Commended

The host, Chief (Engr.) Jubril Dotun Sanusi, received commendations for providing a befitting venue and platform for the large-scale celebration.

His support was described as a significant contribution towards creating space for the expression, preservation and promotion of Yoruba cultural and traditional values.

The celebration ultimately reinforced the importance of preserving Nigeria’s indigenous cultures and religious traditions while encouraging mutual respect and peaceful coexistence among people of different backgrounds and beliefs.

Participants also renewed calls for governments at all levels to support cultural institutions, protect indigenous heritage and recognise the contributions of traditional worshippers and cultural custodians to the preservation of Nigeria’s rich historical identity.

The event ended on a note of renewed commitment to culture, unity, peace, prosperity and the preservation of Yoruba heritage for future generations.

Isese Day 2026: Ilaji Resort Hosts Historic Gathering as Thousands of Traditionalists Offer Prayers for Tinubu, Alli, Oyo and Nigeria

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