Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has approved a 13 per cent increase in fares across public transport services under the Bus Reform Initiative in Lagos State.
The adjustment affects the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and standard bus operations across the state and will take effect from March 2, 2026.
The approval followed appeals from regulated transport operators who cited rising operational costs and economic pressures threatening the sustainability of their services. According to the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), persistent inflation, higher vehicle maintenance expenses, increased spare parts costs, and the implementation of the new national minimum wage contributed to the decision.
Nigeria’s inflation rate closed 2025 at 15.2 per cent, based on data from the National Bureau of Statistics, further compounding financial pressures on operators.
Transport authorities noted that bus companies are also investing in newer, cleaner, and more fuel-efficient vehicles to improve passenger comfort and promote environmental sustainability.
The state government assured residents that the fare review was carefully considered to balance affordability with the need to maintain safe, reliable, and efficient transportation services across Lagos.
