The Lagos State Government has announced the return of a 25% discount on fares for all regulated transportation modes, including buses, ferries, and trains.
This decision is part of the broader “Eko Cares” initiative aimed at alleviating economic hardships for residents.
The news, shared via the official X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, marks the latest phase of the government’s efforts under the “Eko Cares” program, which also includes medical assistance and reductions in transportation and food costs. The fare discount is reintroduced just two months after its previous iteration ended on June 2, following an earlier reintroduction in February.
The government emphasized that the fare reduction is designed to support residents amid ongoing economic pressures. “It is all part of Eko Cares, the umbrella program of the state government’s interventions to cushion the effects of economic hardship,” the statement read. “This includes the ‘Ounjè Eko’ initiative, which offers a 25% reduction on basic food items, and the 25% fare cut on all government transportation platforms.”
Further details on the implementation of this fare discount will be provided by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, which oversees the regulated transport services in the state.
Since 2023, the Lagos State Government has periodically adjusted fare discounts on public transportation in response to economic challenges. Initially, a 50% fare rebate was introduced following the removal of fuel subsidies by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
This measure, effective from August 2 to November 6, 2023, aimed to offset rising living costs. Subsequently, a 25% discount was introduced on November 7, 2023, continuing until January 28, 2024, due to ongoing economic difficulties.
The 25% fare discount was reinstated on February 2024 but was temporarily suspended on June 3, 2024. Additionally, to encourage the use of the Blue Line metro rail, a 25% fare reduction was introduced for off-peak hours between Mile 2 and Marina on August 12, 2024.
These initiatives reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to balance fiscal policies with the need for economic relief amidst fluctuating economic conditions in Lagos.
