Four Years After #EndSARS: Lagos Explains Surging Costs, Forex Crisis Delaying Replacement of Burnt BRT Buses

For the average Lagosian, the delay in replacing these buses translates to a grueling daily routine characterized by longer queues, increased commuter wait times, and a forced reliance on unregulated commercial buses, popularly known as Danfo. The deficit in the BRT fleet has inadvertently driven up transport fares in the informal sector, exacerbating the cost-of-living crisis for millions of low-income earners who depend on affordable, subsidized public transit.

To mitigate these challenges, the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration is reportedly pivoting toward alternative energy solutions and localized assembly partnerships. Rather than relying solely on direct importation of diesel-powered buses, the state is actively exploring the deployment of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and electric vehicles (EVs) through public-private partnerships (PPPs). This strategic shift aims to insulate the state's transport sector from future foreign exchange volatility and diesel price shocks.

Ultimate recovery, transport analysts argue, will require a mix of sovereign guarantees, private sector concessions, and perhaps a dedicated infrastructure bond. As Lagos continues its transition into a mega-city, resolving the BRT deficit remains a litmus test for the state’s resilience and its capacity to protect vital public assets from civil vulnerabilities in the future.