Sanwo-Olu approves 13% BRT fare increase following transporters’ outcry
By Adeola Ogunrinde –
The Lagos State Government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has approved a 13 per cent increase in fares across all Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) routes, following appeals from public transport operators over rising operational costs.
According to Sanwo-Olu, the approval was granted after regulated public transport operators raised concerns about the sustainability of transit services amid mounting economic pressures.
He further disclosed that the fare adjustment is aimed at cushioning the impact of persistent economic challenges affecting public transport operations. The review is also in line with the previously approved annual fare review mechanism.
In line with this development, the Head of Corporate Communications at the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Kolawole Ojelabi, disclosed in a statement issued on Monday that the new fares will take effect from 2 March 2026.
The statement noted that the urgency of the review was highlighted by persistent inflationary trends, with Nigeria’s inflation rate closing at 15.2 per cent in 2025, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
It added that 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.
Mr Ojelabi added that operators are investing in the procurement of new, cleaner and more fuel-efficient buses to improve passenger comfort and promote environmental sustainability, while reassuring commuters of the government’s commitment to balancing affordability with the need to ensure safe, reliable and efficient public transportation across the state.
