The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has approved a 13 per cent increase in fares for buses under the Bus Reform Initiative, including Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and standard routes, reports thegazellenews.com
The Head of Corporate Communication of LAMATA, Mr. Kolawole Ojelabi, who announced this through a statement issued on Monday, 23 February, 2026, said Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu approved the fare increase after bus operators complained about rising costs affecting their operations.
Ojelabi, who disclosed that the new fares will begin on Monday, March 2026 , explained that the increase is meant to help bus operators cope with ongoing economic challenges.
According to him, the adjustment follows the government’s approved yearly fare review plan.
While noting that Nigeria’s inflation rate ended 2025 at 15.2 per cent, based on data from the National Bureau of Statistics, LAMATA image-maker, said bus companies are facing higher costs for vehicle maintenance, spare parts, and workers’ salaries, especially after the new national minimum wage was introduced.
Ojelabi also said operators are investing in cleaner and more fuel-efficient buses to improve passenger comfort and protect the environment.
The government, he added, is trying to balance affordable transport with safe, reliable, and efficient services for residents of Lagos.
