LAMATA to Enforce Cashless Bus Fares in Lagos from August 1

The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) announced that it will fully enforce its cashless fare payment policy beginning August 1. This policy mandates that commuters use the approved electronic payment platform, the Cowry Card, for fares on regulated public transport services.

Idris Akinola, LAMATA's Head of Legal, stated that both passengers who pay cash and operators who accept cash could face legal consequences, including penalties for unauthorized cash transactions. Akinola warned that offenders could face serious penalties, including up to seven years’ imprisonment.

Adekunle Tajudeen, Managing Director of Teejay Motors, confirmed that the company has trained its drivers and boarding officers to reject cash payments, noting that some drivers have previously faced arrest for accepting cash. Transport expert Adepoju Fawokon emphasized that accountability must extend to both parties involved in cash transactions to effectively reduce revenue leakage and ensure the sustainability of Lagos’ regulated public transport system.