UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has enlisted Nigerian-born content creator Bemi Orojuogun, known online as "Bus Aunty," in a video announcement of a £2 bus fare cap for England. The policy, set to take effect from January 1, 2027, aims to reduce travel costs for millions of commuters.
Burnham recreates Bus Aunty's signature style
In the video released on July 22, Burnham mimicked Orojuogun's trademark filming style by holding up his phone with a red double-decker bus passing behind him. He highlighted his earlier success as Mayor of Greater Manchester in introducing a similar £2 cap before revealing the nationwide expansion. Burnham then introduced Orojuogun as a special guest, prompting her to joke, "Oh, Prime Minister, you're stealing my job!" He responded by calling the policy "endorsed by Bus Aunty herself."
Policy details and impact
The new cap will replace the current £3 limit, which is set to expire in March 2027, and will remain in place until the end of 2027. The government estimates the cap could reduce some fares by up to a third, particularly benefiting passengers on rural and coastal routes where single journeys without the cap can exceed £10. Burnham, who became Prime Minister on July 20 after succeeding Keir Starmer, stated the measure is designed to ease the burden of rising living costs.
Bus Aunty's rise to fame
Orojuogun, a mental health nurse who has lived in the UK for over three decades, built a large online following through videos filmed beside London's iconic red buses. Her content has led to collaborations with major brands such as Burberry, Ikea, H&M, and Maybelline. Her appearance alongside the Prime Minister marks a significant milestone in her growing recognition beyond social media.
Reaction and endorsement
Orojuogun welcomed the announcement, calling it "very good news" for commuters and thanking Burnham directly. She shared the video on her own page, further amplifying the policy. The collaboration has drawn attention to both the fare cap and Orojuogun's unique brand of content, which has made her one of the most prominent online personalities from the UK's Nigerian community in recent years.
