Lagos commuters will begin to pay more, as the state government has increased fares on all Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) schemes, including Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and standard routes by 13 percent, citing inflationary pressures.
In a statement signed by Kolawole Ojelabi, head corporate communication, LAMATA officials 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 data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
The statement showed that Bus Operating Companies (BOCs) have continued to grapple with rising operational costs, including increased expenses for vehicle maintenance, spare parts, and staff salaries, particularly following the implementation of the new national minimum wage structure.
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It was also stated that Babajide Sanwo-Olu, governor of Lagos state, approved an appeal from regulated public transport operators, who raised concerns over the sustainability of transit operations amid mounting economic pressures.
The new fare structure will take effect from Monday, March 2, 2026.
According to the state government, the adjustment is intended to mitigate the impact of sustained economic challenges on public transport operations. The review is also in line with the previously approved annual fare review mechanism.
“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 read.
The government reassured commuters of its commitment to striking a balance between affordability and ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient public transportation across the state.
