The Lagos State Government has sanctioned a 13 per cent hike in fares across all services operating under the Bus Reform Initiative, covering the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) network and other regulated bus routes statewide.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu approved the adjustment following appeals from licensed public transport operators, who warned that prevailing economic conditions were putting serious pressure on their ability to sustain operations.
In a statement issued by LAMATA’s Head of Corporate Communication, Kolawole Ojelabi, the new fare regime is scheduled to take effect from Monday, March 2, 2026.
“The adjustment is designed to help offset the severe impact of ongoing economic pressures on public transport providers. It also aligns with the state’s previously established annual fare review mechanism. The urgency of the measure is driven by persistent inflationary trends.
“Data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows Nigeria’s headline inflation rate stood at 15.15 percent in December 2025, with only slight moderation to around 15.1 percent in January 2026, levels that continue to exert heavy strain on operating costs,” the statement added.
According to the agency, bus operators have faced steep increases in operational expenses, particularly in vehicle servicing and repairs, the cost of imported spare parts, and staff remuneration, especially after the implementation of the new national minimum wage.
“In addition, operators are committing significant resources to fleet renewal, procuring newer, cleaner, and more fuel-efficient buses to boost passenger comfort, maintain high service standards, and advance environmental sustainability goals in Lagos.
“The state government sought to reassure commuters that the decision reflects a careful effort to balance affordability with operational necessities.”
