Group demands review of Lagos BRT fare increase, says mass transit must protect the poor

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

A civil society organisation, the Legacy Foundation for Poverty and Inequality Eradication(LFPIE), has called on the Lagos State Government to urgently review the recent increase in Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) fares, warning that the decision could worsen the economic strain on millions of commuters already grappling with economic hardship.

It posited that mass transit in a megacity like Lagos should be treated as a social service designed to protect vulnerable residents, not merely as a revenue-generating venture.

In a statement signed by its President, Omo-Bashorun Bayo Lawal, the group appealed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to suspend the hike and initiate a stakeholder-driven review process.

LFPIE maintained that while government investments in transport infrastructure are commendable, fare adjustments must reflect prevailing household realities, where rising food prices, rent, and energy costs continue to outpace income growth.

The group described the BRT system as one of the most impactful pro-people transport initiatives in Lagos, providing affordable and predictable mobility while reducing dependence on costly private transport operators. According to the Foundation, for many Lagosians, the BRT represents not just a bus service but an economic lifeline that sustains livelihoods and access to opportunities.

Acknowledging the state government’s efforts in infrastructure development and transport management, the Foundation stressed that prevailing economic realities remain fragile.

It noted that food prices, rent, and energy costs are still high, wages have not risen proportionately, and private transport fares have not reduced. Under such conditions, the group warned that a government-controlled fare increase could legitimize further hikes by private operators, shrink disposable income, and worsen urban poverty and inequality.

Omo- Bashorun Lawal

The Foundation urged the government to suspend or reverse the newly announced fare increase and instead convene a stakeholder review involving civil society groups, labour representatives, and commuter associations.

LFPIE further recommended exploring targeted transport subsidies for low-income corridors and implementing efficiency-driven reforms to cut operational costs rather than transferring the burden to commuters.

Describing urban mass transit as a social protection mechanism rather than solely a commercial venture, the group emphasized that affordable transportation is directly linked to poverty reduction, productivity, school attendance, public health, and economic inclusion in a megacity like Lagos.

The Foundation reaffirmed its willingness to engage constructively with the state government by offering policy input, supporting data-driven social impact assessments, and facilitating dialogue between commuters and relevant authorities.

LFPIE however expressed confidence in Governor Sanwo-Olu’s “listening leadership,” urging him to prioritize the welfare of Lagosians by reversing the fare hike and preserving the BRT system as a critical social support structure.