Sanwo Olu Approves 13 Percent Fare Increase for Lagos BRT and Public Buses

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu has approved a 13 percent increase in fares across all Bus Reform Initiative routes, covering the Bus Rapid Transit system and other regulated public bus services in the state.

The fare adjustment was announced on Monday by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority through its Head of Corporate Communications, Kolawole Ojelabi. According to the agency, the increase takes immediate effect across all corridors under the Bus Reform Initiative framework.

LAMATA explained that the decision followed sustained appeals from regulated bus operators who warned that rising operating costs were threatening the viability of services. Operators cited sharp increases in fuel prices, vehicle maintenance, spare parts, and staff wages, driven by inflationary pressures and currency depreciation, while passenger fares had remained unchanged for a prolonged period.

Officials noted that without a fare review, several operators risked scaling down operations or withdrawing from routes entirely, which could lead to service disruptions for commuters.

Under the new structure, fares on all BRI schemes will rise by 13 percent. A journey that previously cost ₦600 will now cost approximately ₦678, while a ₦1,000 fare will increase to about ₦1,130. The adjustment applies to BRT corridors such as the Ikorodu to TBS route, as well as other standard regulated bus services overseen by LAMATA.

The state government described the move as a necessary balance between easing commuter burden and ensuring the sustainability of public transport services. Authorities maintained that the adjustment is aimed at keeping buses on the road and preventing a breakdown of regulated transport operations across the state.

With the approval now in effect, Lagos commuters should expect higher fares on BRT and other government regulated buses, as the state moves to stabilise public transportation amid prevailing economic challenges.