Lagos State Government Approves 13% Fare Increase for Public Bus Services
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has officially sanctioned a 13 percent increase in fares across all Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) schemes, which include the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and standard bus routes. This adjustment, announced by the Lagos State Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), is scheduled to take effect from Monday, March 2, 2026. The decision follows a passionate appeal from regulated public transport operators who have been grappling with escalating operational expenses.
Economic Pressures Drive Fare Review
Kolawole Ojelabi, Head of Corporate Communication at LAMATA, explained in a statement issued via the agency's X handle @Lamataonline on Monday, February 23, 2026, that the fare review is a direct response to persistent inflationary trends. Nigeria's inflation rate closed 2025 at 15.2 percent, creating significant economic challenges for public transport operations. The state government emphasized that this adjustment aims to cushion the impact of these sustained economic pressures while maintaining service standards.
Governor Sanwo-Olu reassured commuters that the government remains committed to balancing affordability with the need for safe, reliable, and efficient public transportation across Lagos. He highlighted that the fare increase is part of a previously approved annual review mechanism designed to ensure the sustainability of transport services.
Rising Operational Costs for Bus Companies
Bus Operating Companies (BOCs) have faced mounting operational costs, including increased expenses for vehicle maintenance, spare parts, and staff salaries. These financial burdens have been exacerbated by the implementation of the new national minimum wage structure. 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 from LAMATA underscored that the fare adjustment is essential to support these investments and ensure that public transportation remains viable in the face of economic headwinds. This move follows a previous fare increase in February 2025, when BRT fares were raised by 18 percent due to rising operations costs and increases in diesel prices.
Background and Context
Recall that the Lagos state government had earlier revealed plans for fare adjustments, asking commuters to bear with the government as it navigates economic challenges. The current approval by Governor Sanwo-Olu reflects a ongoing effort to align public transport fares with economic realities while striving to provide quality service. The government's approach aims to strike a delicate balance between supporting transport operators and protecting commuters from excessive financial strain.
As Lagos continues to grow as a major economic hub, the state's public transportation system plays a critical role in daily commutes. This fare increase, while modest at 13 percent, is part of broader strategies to ensure the long-term sustainability and efficiency of bus services, ultimately benefiting both operators and the millions of residents who rely on them for mobility.
