Lagos Government Invests ₦14.9 Billion to Slash Transport Fares for Residents

In a strategic move to ease the burden of commuting for millions of residents, the Lagos State Government has disclosed that it has spent a total of ₦14.9 billion over the past six years to subsidize public transport fares. This initiative, carried out through the Lagos Bus Service Limited (LBSL), is aimed at making transportation more affordable and accessible across the state.

The State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, revealed the figures during a media briefing on the performance of the public bus system. He noted that the average fare on LBSL buses has remained significantly lower by about ₦261.67 than those charged by informal transport operators, such as commercial buses and tricycles.

“For instance, in February 2025, while the average fare for informal transport was ₦1,097.73, LBSL maintained a fare of ₦542.66,” Osiyemi said. “This gap is the result of a consistent subsidy by the state to support Lagosians, particularly those in lower-income brackets.”

Since its inception in May 2019, LBSL has transported over 60 million passengers, currently moving an average of 42,000 passengers daily through more than 1,000 trips. The government’s financial commitment has not only sustained operations but has also ensured commuters benefit from structured, safe, and cost-effective transport.

In addition to fare subsidies, the Lagos government has invested heavily in capacity building and service improvement. The LBSL Driving School recently certified an additional 144 drivers, bringing the total number of trained high-capacity bus drivers to 3,537 as of March 2025.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration has positioned this initiative as part of a broader urban mobility plan aimed at reducing congestion, improving road safety, and providing alternatives to unreliable and often exploitative informal transport systems.

Commuters across the state have applauded the move, noting its significance amidst rising costs of living and economic uncertainty. Transportation analysts also say the subsidy is critical in maintaining a livable megacity, especially for daily wage earners and students.

As Lagos continues to urbanize rapidly, the state’s investment in affordable transport is expected to play a key role in achieving long-term goals of sustainability, inclusivity, and improved quality of life for all residents.