The Lagos State Government has approved a 13 per cent increase in fares across all Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) schemes, covering Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and standard bus services, as part of efforts to address rising operational costs in the public transport sector.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu granted the approval following appeals from regulated public transport operators who expressed concerns over the sustainability of transit operations amid mounting economic pressures.
According to a statement issued by the Head of Corporate Communications at the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Kolawole Ojelabi, the new fare structure will take effect from Monday, March 2, 2026.
The adjustment, authorities explained, is aimed at cushioning the impact of sustained economic challenges affecting public transportation while aligning with the previously approved annual fare review mechanism.
Officials noted that the urgency of the review was underscored by persistent inflationary trends. Nigeria’s inflation rate closed 2025 at 15.2 per cent, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), further intensifying cost pressures on operators.
Bus Operating Companies (BOCs) have continued to grapple with rising operational expenses, including higher costs of vehicle maintenance, spare parts, and staff salaries, particularly following the implementation of the new national minimum wage structure.
The government stated that operators are also investing in the procurement of new, cleaner and more fuel-efficient buses to improve passenger comfort and promote environmental sustainability.
While acknowledging the burden on commuters, the state government reassured residents of its commitment to balancing affordability with the need to ensure safe, reliable and efficient public transportation services across Lagos.
