**Naija commuters, get ready for a fare hike: Lagos approves 13% increase on BRT and standard routes** If you're a regular user of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) or standard routes in Lagos, you might want to prepare your wallet for a slight increase in fares. The Lagos State Government has given the green light for a 13% hike in fares across all Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) schemes, effective from March 2, 2026. The decision, according to the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), was taken after public transport operators pleaded for a fare adjustment due to the economic challenges they're facing. Inflation, which closed 2025 at 15.2%, has seen the cost of living rise significantly, making it difficult for transport operators to maintain their services. LAMATA explained that the increase is aimed at cushioning the impact of economic pressures, particularly the rising operational costs such as vehicle maintenance, spare parts, and staff salaries. To maintain service standards, transport operators are investing in new buses, which are cleaner, fuel-efficient, and more comfortable for passengers. While this might come as a shock to some commuters, especially those on a tight budget, the government assures that the hike is necessary to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient public transportation in the state. According to LAMATA, the new fare structure will balance affordability with the need to maintain quality services. For Lagosians, this development highlights the ongoing struggle to balance the economy's growth with the need for affordable public transportation. As the state continues to expand its transportation infrastructure, commuters must be prepared for changes that might affect their daily commutes.