The Lagos State Government has approved a 13 per cent increase in fares across all Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) schemes, including Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and standard routes.
In a statement released on February 23, the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) disclosed that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu granted the approval following appeals from regulated public transport operators. The operators had reportedly raised concerns about the sustainability of transit services amid mounting economic pressures.
According to the state government, the fare adjustment is intended to cushion the impact of ongoing economic challenges affecting public transport operations.
LAMATA stated that the new fare structure will take effect from Monday, March 2, 2026.
“The review is also in line with the previously approved annual fare review mechanism. The urgency of the review, officials noted, is underscored by persistent inflationary trends, with Nigeria’s inflation rate closing 2025 at 15.2 per cent, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS),” the statement read.
The agency further noted that Bus Operating Companies (BOCs) have continued to face rising operational costs, including increased expenses for vehicle maintenance, spare parts, and staff salaries, particularly following the implementation of the new national minimum wage.
The development is expected to impact thousands of commuters who rely daily on the BRT and other regulated bus services across Lagos.
