By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
The Association of African Traditional Religion of Nigeria and Overseas (AATREN) has urged adherents and other citizens to use the opportunity of the Isese Day celebration to offer prayers for Nigeria.
The association’s Public Relations Officer, Lekan Ajirotutu, made this known in an interview with journalists on Wednesday, 19 August, 2026, in Lagos, ahead of the Isese Day celebration marked every August 20.
Ajirotutu explained that citizens should pray for the country’s peace, unity, stability and economic advancement, stressing that fervent prayers would help Nigeria overcome security, economic and other challenges.
He disclosed that some states, including Lagos, Oyo, Ogun and Osun, had declared Thursday a work-free day or public holiday to celebrate Isese Day and promote religious inclusivity and cultural tourism.
Ajirotutu explained that cultural values and identity served as binding forces for societal peace and harmony, pledging that African traditional worshippers would stand by the administration of President Bola Tinubu and sustain prayers for the success of his leadership and the overall progress of Nigeria.
He explained that the Isese Day celebration was aimed at maintaining the identities of African traditional worshippers, noting that Africa had known God before the advent of Christianity and Islam.
He disclosed that the association would organise a seminar in Lagos on Thursday to enlighten residents about African traditional religion, and urged Africans, particularly Nigerians, not to be afraid to participate in traditional activities.
