By Ghazali Ibrahim
Residents of Lagos are increasingly turning to the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system as rising fuel prices continue to push up transportation costs across the state.
The shift comes amid a surge in pump prices and operational expenses, which have forced many private transport operators to increase fares, making daily commuting more expensive for millions of residents.
As a result, more commuters are opting for the relatively regulated and affordable BRT system for their daily movements.
The development follows a recent 13 per cent fare increase approved by the Lagos State Government across all Bus Reform Initiative schemes, including BRT services.
Authorities said the adjustment was necessary to cushion the impact of rising operational costs such as fuel, vehicle maintenance and wages.
Despite the fare hike, many commuters still consider BRT a cheaper alternative compared to commercial buses, whose fares have risen even more sharply due to fuel costs.
Analysts say the trend reflects broader economic pressure, with transport expenses becoming a major burden for households in Nigeria’s commercial capital.
Commuters, however, continue to face challenges, including long queues at bus terminals and concerns about service quality, as demand for BRT services increases.
Some residents say the system, though relatively affordable, is becoming overstretched due to the growing number of users.
Transport experts warn that continued increases in fuel prices could further strain the system, potentially leading to more fare adjustments and wider inflation across goods and services, as transportation costs feed into the broader economy.
The Bus Rapid Transit system, managed under the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, remains a critical component of urban mobility, moving thousands of passengers daily.
However, the recent surge in demand highlights the urgent need for expansion and improved service delivery to meet the growing pressure.
