Lagos Governor Increases BRT Fares By 13 Percent, Cites Rising Operational Costs And Inflation

The Lagos State Government has approved a 13 per cent fare increase across all services under the Bus Reform Initiative (BRI), which includes the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and standard bus routes throughout the state.

In a statement by Head of Corporate Communication at LAMATA, Kolawole Ojelabi, the revised fare structure will come into effect from Monday March 2nd 2026.

According to LAMATA, the fare increase was approved by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, following a passionate appeal from regulated public transport operators, who raised concerns over the sustainability of transit operations amid mounting economic pressures.

“According to the state government, the adjustment is aimed at cushioning the impact of sustained economic challenges affecting public transport operations. The review is also in line with the previously approved annual fare review mechanism,” the statement reads in part.

“The urgency of the review, officials noted, is underscored by persistent inflationary trends, with Nigeria’s inflation rate closing 2025 at 15.2 percent, according to data from the
National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).”

The statement further explained that the move was aimed at sustaining BRT operations in the state, which Bus Operating Companies (BOCs) claimed has increased following the implementation of the new national minimum wage structure.

“Bus Operating Companies (BOCs) have continued to grapple with rising operational costs, including increased expenses for vehicle maintenance, spare parts, and staff salaries, particularly following 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 government reassured commuters of its commitment to balancing affordability with the need to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient public transportation across the state.”

The latest increase in BRT fares comes a year after the Lagos State Government, through LAMATA, announced an 18% percent increase in BRT bus fares, which took effect on Monday, 17th February 2025.

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