The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has released new fares for Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and other regulated bus services across Lagos State.
The new fares follow an approved increase and will take effect from Monday, March 2, 2026. LAMATA made the announcement on Tuesday, days after the fare increment was approved by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
According to the state government, the decision to adjust fares was taken after appeals from Bus Operating Companies (BOCs), which raised concerns about the rising cost of running transport services in the state.
Lagos is Nigeria’s commercial capital and home to over 20 million people. Every day, millions of residents depend on public transport to move from their homes to workplaces, schools, markets, and other destinations. The BRT system, introduced in 2008, was designed to provide affordable and reliable mass transit.
However, in recent years, transport operators have faced increasing operational costs. These include the rising price of fuel, vehicle maintenance, spare parts, insurance, and staff salaries. The cost of importing buses and parts has also increased due to exchange rate pressures.
LAMATA said Bus Operating Companies have struggled to cope with these rising expenses. The agency explained that the fare review is part of efforts to reduce pressure on operators and ensure the system continues to function smoothly.
The state government also noted that the review follows the already approved annual fare review system. This system allows the government to assess fares regularly, taking into account economic conditions and the cost of operations.
In a statement, LAMATA said operators are also investing in new, cleaner, and more fuel-efficient buses. According to the agency, this will improve passenger comfort and support environmental sustainability.
Governor Sanwo-Olu approved the fare adjustment after consultations with stakeholders in the transport sector. The government said the increase is necessary to maintain service quality and avoid disruptions in the system.
Officials stressed that the goal is not to burden commuters but to ensure that transport services remain available and reliable. They said without the adjustment, operators may struggle to maintain buses, pay staff, and expand services.
Over the years, Lagos State has invested heavily in transport infrastructure. Apart from the BRT system, the government has expanded road networks and launched rail services under the Lagos Rail Mass Transit project.
Authorities say a stable and efficient public transport system is important for economic growth, as it allows workers and businesses to operate effectively.
LAMATA released a detailed list of new fares for standard route services across the state.
For example, passengers travelling from Igando to Obalende will now pay ₦1,140. The fare from Baruwa to Ikeja to Oshodi is ₦800, while Marina to Lekki is ₦570.
Commuters on the Egbeda to Obalende route will pay ₦1,030, and those travelling from Iyana Ipaja to Obalende will pay ₦1,090.
Other updated fares include:
Odogunyan to Oshodi – ₦920
Odogunyan to CMS – ₦1,140
Ifako Ijaiye to Yaba – ₦920
Ikotun to Marina/CMS – ₦1,100
Berger to Lekki – ₦1,140
Badagry to Mile 2 – ₦1,140
Ayobo to Obalende – ₦1,260
Marina to Ajah – ₦920
Yaba/Oyingbo to Idumota – ₦460
For additional standard routes, fares include:
Ikeja to Berger – ₦470
Ikeja to Obalende – ₦720
Berger to Ajah – ₦1,710
Oshodi to Ajah – ₦1,320
Mile 12 to Apapa – ₦810
Oshodi to Agege – ₦430
Ikeja to Ikotun – ₦630
New BRT Service Fares
LAMATA also released new fares for BRT services operating on dedicated corridors.
For instance, the fare from Oshodi to Abule Egba is now ₦680. Passengers travelling from Oshodi to Ayobo, Command, or Ikola will pay ₦890, while Oshodi to Tollgate is ₦970.
On the Ikorodu corridor, commuters will pay:
Ikorodu to TBS – ₦960
Ikorodu to Yaba/Oyingbo/Costain – ₦910
Ikorodu to Oshodi – ₦680
Ikorodu to Ikeja – ₦680
Ikorodu to Mile 12 – ₦450
Other BRT fares include:
Mile 2 to TBS – ₦680
Ketu to TBS – ₦680
Ojo Barracks to Mile 2 – ₦510
Okokomaiko to Oyingbo – ₦910
The announcement has generated mixed reactions among residents. While some commuters understand the reasons for the increase, others say it will add to their daily expenses.
Many Lagos workers rely on multiple bus trips each day. A small increase in fares can significantly affect monthly transport costs, especially for low- and middle-income earners.
Some passengers expressed hope that the new fares would lead to better service, fewer breakdowns, and shorter waiting times at bus stops.
Lagos continues to grow rapidly, with thousands of people moving into the city each year. This population growth places heavy demand on roads and transport systems.
The BRT system remains one of the most important transport options for residents because it offers structured routes, regulated fares, and safer operations compared to informal transport services.
State officials say the fare review is part of a long-term plan to keep the system sustainable. They added that the government will continue to monitor economic conditions and consult stakeholders when necessary.
