All services under the Bus Reform Initiative, including the Bus Rapid Transit system and regular bus routes throughout the state, will see a 13% fare increase approved by the Lagos State Government.

After a sincere plea from authorised public transport providers, who pointed out that mounting economic difficulties were endangering the viability of their business, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu granted the hike.

The new fare structure is set to go into effect on Monday, March 2, 2026, according to Kolawole Ojelabi, Head of Corporate Communication at LAMATA.

“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 added that, particularly since the new national minimum wage was implemented, bus operators have been struggling with sharply growing expenses in crucial areas including personnel pay, imported spare parts, and vehicle maintenance and repairs.

Operators are also investing a lot of money in fleet replacement, acquiring newer, cleaner, and fuel-efficient buses to improve passenger comfort, uphold high service standards, and further environmental sustainability objectives in Lagos.

The statement also stated that the state administration aimed to reassure commuters that the decision was the result of a careful consideration of operational requirements and affordability.