The Lagos State Government has authorized a 13% fare increase for all Bus Reform Initiative programs, including regular routes and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT). 

This was revealed in a statement released on Monday by Mr. Kolawole Ojelabi, Head of Corporate Communication at the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA). 

According to Ojelabi, the hike was granted by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu following requests from regulated operators regarding growing economic constraints endangering the sustainability of their operations.

“The new fare structure will take effect from Monday, March 2,” he said.

He clarified that the change was made to lessen the effects of ongoing economic difficulties on public transportation operations.

“The review is also in line with the previously approved annual fare review mechanism,” Ojelabi added.

He emphasized ongoing inflationary trends, pointing out that the National Bureau of Statistics reported that Nigeria's inflation rate ended 2025 at 15.2%. 

He claims that with the new national minimum wage, bus operating companies are still struggling with increased maintenance expenses, costly spare parts, and higher salary bills.

“In a bid to maintain and improve standards, operators are investing in cleaner, fuel-efficient buses to enhance passenger comfort and environmental sustainability,” he said.

He went on to say that the administration was still dedicated to striking a balance between affordability and the state's safe, dependable, and effective public transportation system.

Source