Lagos Approves 13% Fare Increase for BRT, Cites Rising Operational Costs

The Lagos State Government has approved a 13 per cent fare increase across all services under the Bus Reform Initiative, including the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and standard bus routes. The revised fares will take effect from March 2, 2026.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu granted the approval following appeals from regulated public transport operators who cited mounting operational challenges amid persistent economic pressures. The decision, according to authorities, aligns with the state’s established annual fare review mechanism.

In a statement by LAMATA’s Head of Corporate Communication, Kolawole Ojelabi, the adjustment is intended to cushion the impact of inflation and rising operational expenses on transport providers. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows headline inflation remained above 15 per cent between December 2025 and January 2026.

Operators have reportedly faced increased costs in vehicle maintenance, imported spare parts, staff salaries following the new national minimum wage, and fleet renewal initiatives aimed at improving service quality and environmental sustainability.

The government maintained that while the fare increase may pose short-term challenges for commuters, it is necessary to ensure long-term service sustainability, operational efficiency, and improved passenger experience across Lagos’ public transport network.