**Fare Hike Hits Lagos Commuters: 13% Increase in BRT Fares** Lagosians, get ready for a costlier ride. The Lagos State Government has given the nod for a 13 per cent hike in fares on Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and standard routes operated by the Bus Reform Initiative (BRI). This decision comes after public transport operators appealed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for help, citing economic pressures that have made it challenging to maintain transit services. For commuters, this fare increase is a bitter pill to swallow, especially considering the current economic climate in the country. According to the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), the new fare structure is intended to cushion the blow of economic challenges affecting public transport operations. The authorities have stated that the hike is also in line with the approved annual fare review mechanism, which is meant to keep pace with rising operational costs. The increase in fares is largely due to the rising costs of maintaining vehicles, purchasing spare parts, and paying staff salaries. The implementation of the new national minimum wage has added to the woes of Bus Operating Companies (BOCs). As a result, LAMATA has decided to adjust the fares to ensure the sustainability of transit services. The new fare structure will come into effect from March 2, 2026. Thousands of commuters rely daily on BRT and other regulated bus services in Lagos. While the fare increase may provide some relief to BOCs, it remains to be seen how commuters will cope with the additional costs. As the economic situation continues to evolve, one thing is certain: the cost of transportation in Lagos will continue to be a contentious issue. Only time will tell how this fare hike will impact the daily lives of Lagosians.