BRT
Olamilekan Abayomi
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has approved a 13% increase in fares for Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and standard bus routes, effective March 2, 2026. This decision follows appeals from regulated public transport operators citing rising operational costs, including vehicle maintenance, spare parts, and staff salaries, amidst Nigeria’s inflation rate of 15.2% in 2025.
The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) stated that the adjustment aligns with the state’s annual fare review mechanism and aims to cushion the impact of economic challenges on public transport services. Operators are investing in newer, cleaner, and more fuel-efficient buses to improve service quality and promote environmental sustainability.
The fare increase is expected to help Bus Operating Companies (BOCs) maintain and improve standards, as they grapple with rising expenses. The state government reassured commuters that the decision reflects a careful effort to balance affordability with operational sustainability .
Some of the new fares include:
– *Standard Route Services:*
– Igando – Obalende: ₦1,140
– Baruwa – Ikeja – Oshodi: ₦800
– Marina – Lekki: ₦570
– Egbeda – Obalende: ₦1,030
– *BRT Services:*
– Oshodi – Abule Egba: ₦680
– Oshodi – Ayobo: ₦890
– Oshodi – Command: ₦890
– Berger – Ajah: ₦1,710
The Lagos State Government has been working to improve public transportation, including the introduction of cashless payment systems and the expansion of BRT routes. The government has also implemented temporary relief measures to cushion economic pressure on residents.
The fare increase has sparked reactions from Lagosians, with some expressing concerns about the impact on commuters. Others have suggested adopting world-class practices in mass transit management, maintenance, and route optimization.
The state government continues to enforce restrictions on unregulated minibuses along BRT corridors, redirecting informal operators to feeder and community routes under its First and Last Mile transport plan.
