BRT Fare Hike: Foundation Urges Sanwo-Olu To Reverse Decision

The Legacy Foundation for Poverty and Inequality Eradication has appealed to the Lagos State Government to reconsider the recent increase in Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) fares, warning that it will further strain low-income residents across the state.

In a statement issued on Friday by its President, Omo-Bashorun Bayo Lawal, the foundation said the BRT system has, over the years, served as a critical relief mechanism for millions of Lagosians by providing relatively affordable and reliable transportation.

Lawal commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his sustained investment in mass transit infrastructure but expressed concern that the fare hike would erode the pro-poor value of the scheme.

He noted that many workers, students, artisans, and small-scale traders depend on the BRT to commute daily, and transport expenses already consume a significant portion of their earnings.

“Any increase in BRT fares at this time will not only reduce the disposable income of low-income households but may also trigger further hikes by private transport operators, thereby worsening the economic pressure on residents,” he said.

The foundation noted that affordable public transportation is a key instrument for poverty reduction, economic productivity, and social inclusion in a megacity like Lagos. It therefore called on the state government to suspend the fare increase pending wider stakeholder consultations and a social impact assessment.

The group also recommended introducing targeted subsidies for vulnerable groups—including students, persons with disabilities, and low-income earners—as well as exploring alternative funding mechanisms to support BRT operations without transferring the burden to commuters.

Lawal added that maintaining affordable fares would reinforce the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and people-centered governance.

He said the foundation was willing to collaborate with relevant agencies by providing data and community-level insights to develop sustainable, pro-poor transport policies.