The Lagos State Government has authorized a 13 per cent fare hike for all services under the Bus Reform Initiative, covering both the Bus Rapid Transit system and conventional bus routes across the state.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu approved the increase following a heartfelt appeal from licensed public transport operators, who cited growing economic pressures jeopardizing the sustainability of their operations.

According to LAMATA’s Head of Corporate Communication, Kolawole Ojelabi, the new fare structure will take effect on Monday, March 2, 2026.

“The adjustment is designed to help offset the severe impact of ongoing economic pressures on public transport providers. It also aligns with the state’s previously established annual fare review mechanism. The urgency of the measure is driven by persistent inflationary trends.

“Data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows Nigeria’s headline inflation rate stood at 15.15 percent in December 2025, with only slight moderation to around 15.1 percent in January 2026, levels that continue to exert heavy strain on operating costs,” the statement read.

The statement further noted that bus operators have been grappling with steeply rising costs in critical areas such as vehicle maintenance and repairs, imported spare parts, and employee salaries, especially in the wake of the new national minimum wage implementation.

“In addition, operators are committing significant resources to fleet renewal, procuring newer, cleaner, and more fuel-efficient buses to boost passenger comfort, maintain high service standards, and advance environmental sustainability goals in Lagos.

“The state government sought to reassure commuters that the decision reflects a careful effort to balance affordability with operational necessities,” the statement added.