3 hours ago
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The Lagos State Government has approved a 13 per cent increase in fares on Bus Rapid Transit, BRT, and other standard bus routes across the state.
The decision was approved by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, following appeals from regulated public transport operators who raised concerns about the rising cost of running their services.
According to a statement shared by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), the fare adjustment will affect all Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) schemes, including BRT and standard routes. The new fares will take effect from Monday, March 2, 2026.
The state government explained that the increase is meant to reduce the pressure on public transport operators caused by ongoing economic challenges. It also noted that the review follows the state’s already approved annual fare review system.
LAMATA said the decision became urgent due to persistent inflation, noting that Nigeria’s inflation rate closed 2025 at 15.2 per cent, according to figures from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
Bus Operating Companies (BOCs), the statement said, have continued to struggle with higher operating costs, including vehicle maintenance, spare parts, and staff salaries. These costs, it added, increased further after the introduction of the new national minimum wage.
“In a bid to maintain and improve service standards, operators are also investing in the procurement of new, cleaner, and more fuel-efficient buses to enhance passenger comfort and promote environmental sustainability,” the statement said.
The government reassured road users that it remains committed to striking a balance between affordability and the need to provide safe, reliable, and efficient public transport across Lagos State.
It added that the fare increase is part of efforts to keep the public transport system running smoothly while ensuring long-term sustainability for operators and improved service delivery for passengers.
