The Lagos State Government has approved a 13 per cent hike in fares for all services under the Bus Reform Initiative, covering the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and standard bus routes across the state.
The decision follows appeals from regulated public transport operators, who warned that rising operational costs were threatening the sustainability of their services amid Nigeria’s challenging economic environment.
In a statement, LAMATA Head of Corporate Communications Kolawole Ojelabi confirmed that the revised fares will take effect on Monday, March 2, 2026. He explained that the increase aims to cushion operators against the impact of persistent inflation while adhering to the state’s annual fare review framework.
“According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria’s headline inflation was 15.15 percent in December 2025, moderating slightly to 15.1 percent in January 2026, continuing to pressure operating costs,” the statement noted.
Operators have been facing rising expenses in vehicle maintenance, imported spare parts, and staff salaries, especially following the implementation of the new national minimum wage. They are also investing heavily in fleet renewal, procuring newer, cleaner, and more fuel-efficient buses to improve passenger comfort, maintain service standards, and advance environmental goals in Lagos.
The state government reassured commuters that the fare adjustment reflects a careful effort to balance affordability with the operational needs of public transport providers.
