The Lagos State Government has approved a 13 per cent increase in fares across all Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) services, including Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and standard bus routes, with the new rates set to take effect from 2 March.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu approved the adjustment following requests from regulated public transport operators who raised concerns over escalating operational expenses and mounting economic pressures.
Announcing the decision on Monday via X, the Head of Corporate Communications at the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Kolawole Ojelabi, said the fare review aligns with the state’s previously established annual adjustment framework.
According to the government, the decision was driven by persistent inflationary trends and the rising cost of running bus operations. Nigeria’s inflation rate closed 2025 at 15.2 per cent, based on figures released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
ENigeria Newspaper learnt that officials noted that Bus Operating Companies (BOCs) have grappled with higher expenses for vehicle maintenance, spare parts procurement, and staff remuneration, especially following the implementation of the new national minimum wage. Operators are also reportedly investing in cleaner, more fuel-efficient buses to improve service quality and promote environmental sustainability.
The state government assured residents that it remains committed to striking a balance between affordability for commuters and the provision of safe, reliable, and efficient transport services across the metropolis.
This marks the latest in a series of fare adjustments under the bus reform programme.
Recall that ENigeria Newspaper reported that in February 2025, LAMATA announced an 18 per cent increase in BRT fares, also attributing the move to rising operational costs. Earlier, on 30 June 2022, the state approved an additional ₦100 increase on all BRT routes due to soaring diesel prices and a shortage of spare parts that left several buses grounded.
