Lagos 13% BRT fare hike stirs fresh inflation concerns ahead of March 2 rollout

A newly approved 13 per cent fare increase on Lagos Bus Reform Initiative routes, including BRT and standard services, has triggered concern among commuters and economists over possible transport-led inflation in the state.

The adjustment, approved by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is scheduled to take effect on Monday, March 2, 2026. Analysts say the move could influence private operators, who often benchmark their fares against government-regulated BRT prices.

Lagos-based economist Oluwole Crowther said the increase could widen inflationary pressure because transport costs feed into prices of food, goods and services. He argued that the timing is difficult for commuters, noting that fares were previously raised by 18 per cent in February 2025.

Lagos State Government said the review followed appeals from regulated operators facing higher operating costs. Officials said the adjustment aligns with the state’s annual fare review framework and reflects economic realities, adding that inflation closed 2025 at 15.2 per cent, according to National Bureau of Statistics data.

Commuters on the Egbeda–Oshodi corridor said the current BRT fare of about N600 may rise to roughly N700, and warned that privately run yellow buses, now around N700 to N800, could also move higher to between N800 and N1,000.

Residents also raised service-quality concerns, citing bus breakdowns, long waiting times and reduced onboard amenities. In response, LAMATA said operators are investing in newer, cleaner and more fuel-efficient buses as part of service improvement efforts.