Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos state has approved a 13 percent fare increase across all bus reform initiative (BRI) schemes, including bus rapid transit (BRT) and standard routes.
In a statement on Monday, Kolawole Ojelabi, head of corporate communication for the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), said Sanwo-Olu gave the approval following concerns raised by regulated public transport operators over the sustainability of transit services amid mounting economic pressures.
Ojelabi stated that the new fare structure will take effect from Monday, March 2.
He explained that the adjustment is aimed at cushioning the impact of the economic challenges affecting public transport operations.
“The review is also in line with the previously approved annual fare review mechanism,” the statement reads.
Ojelabi noted that the urgency of the review is underscored by persistent inflationary trends, with Nigeria’s inflation rate closing 2025 at 15.2 percent, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
The LAMATA spokesperson said bus operating companies (BOCs) have continued to grapple with rising operational costs, including vehicle maintenance, spare parts, and staff salaries, particularly following the implementation 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,” Ojelabi added.
He reassured commuters that the Lagos government remains committed to balancing affordability with the need to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient public transportation across the state.