Lagosians are set to face tougher times as the Lagos State Government officially approved a 13 per cent increase in fares for all Bus Reform Initiative schemes, including the popular Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and standard routes.

The announcement was made on Monday by the Head of Corporate Communication at the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Mr. Kolawole Ojelabi.

Commuters have only a few days to adjust their budgets, as Ojelabi confirmed that the new fare structure will take effect from Monday, March 2, 2026.

According to LAMATA, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu gave the green light for the hike following intense appeals from regulated bus operators. The operators reportedly claimed that mounting economic pressures were threatening to collapse public transport operations in the state.

Ojelabi explained that the adjustment is a “cushioning” measure to help transport schemes survive a harsh economic climate. Key reasons cited for the 13% jump include:

• Inflationary Pressure: Nigeria’s inflation rate, which closed 2025 at 15.2 per cent, has made the cost of business unbearable for transport companies.
• High Maintenance Costs: Operators are struggling with the skyrocketing prices of spare parts and general vehicle maintenance.
• Wage Bills: The implementation of the new national minimum wage has significantly increased the payroll costs for Bus Operating Companies.
• Modernization: Investment in cleaner, fuel-efficient buses to meet environmental standards has also added to the financial burden.

LAMATA maintains that the review is part of a previously approved annual fare mechanism designed to keep the transport system running without a total breakdown in service.

“The review is in line with the previously approved annual fare review mechanism… In a bid to maintain and improve standards, operators are investing in cleaner, fuel-efficient buses to enhance passenger comfort,” Ojelabi stated.

While the government insists it is committed to providing “safe, reliable, and efficient” transport, the move is expected to trigger reactions from millions of Lagos residents who rely daily on the BRT system to navigate the city’s notorious traffic.