LAMATA to Enforce Cashless Bus Fare Payments Across Lagos from August 1

The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has announced that full enforcement of its cashless fare payment policy on regulated public transport services will begin on August 1. The agency warned that both commuters who pay cash and operators who accept cash fares could face prosecution under existing Lagos State transport regulations.

Speaking during an X Space discussion with transport stakeholders, LAMATA's Head of Legal, Idris Akinola, said passengers using regulated buses are required to pay fares exclusively through the approved electronic payment platform, the Cowry Card. He stressed that unauthorised cash transactions would be treated as offences under the law, urging commuters to comply before the enforcement date.

Akinola also called on transport operators to ensure their drivers and conductors fully adhere to the directive by refusing cash payments and cooperating with enforcement officials. He warned that offenders convicted under the relevant regulations could face severe penalties, including imprisonment, depending on the circumstances of the offence.

Transport operators have welcomed the move, arguing that cash collections have contributed to revenue leakages, making it difficult to maintain buses, purchase spare parts and meet staff salary obligations. They expressed confidence that the policy would improve transparency, strengthen accountability and enhance the sustainability of Lagos' regulated public transport system.

The enforcement forms part of LAMATA's broader efforts to modernise public transportation and expand the state's digital payment system. Authorities believe the policy will improve service delivery, reduce financial losses and support the efficient operation of regulated bus services across Lagos.