The Lagos State Government has approved a 13 per cent increase in fares across all Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) schemes and standard routes, following appeals by public transport operators over rising operational costs.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu approved the adjustment after regulated operators raised concerns about the sustainability of transit services amid mounting economic pressures.
The state government said the fare review is aimed at cushioning the impact of persistent economic challenges affecting public transport operations and is in line with the previously approved annual fare review mechanism.
In a statement issued by the Head of Corporate Communications at the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, Kolawole Ojelabi, said the new fare regime would take effect from March 2, 2026.
He noted that the urgency of the review was underscored by persistent inflationary trends, with Nigeria’s inflation rate closing at 15.2 per cent in 2025, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics.
Ojelabi added that Bus Operating Companies (BOCs) have continued to grapple with escalating costs, including expenses on vehicle maintenance, spare parts and staff salaries, particularly following the implementation of the new national minimum wage.
According to him, operators are also investing in the acquisition of new, cleaner and more fuel-efficient buses to improve service delivery, enhance passenger comfort and promote environmental sustainability.
The government reassured commuters of its commitment to balancing affordability with the provision of safe, reliable and efficient public transportation across the state.
