Okada and transport fares surge sharply across Nigeria
Nigerians are paying much more for transportation, especially motorcycle (okada) rides, due to rising fuel prices and currency depreciation. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, fares for okada, buses, air, and water transport have all increased significantly. The removal of the petrol subsidy and changes in the foreign exchange market have contributed to these rising costs. Bola Tinubu's administration has faced calls from motorists for relief measures as daily hardships worsen.
TLDR
- The average fare for an okada trip rose from N464.55 in May 2023 to N1,072.51 in May 2026, a 130.87% increase.
- Bus fares within cities increased from N649.59 in May 2023 to N1,431.25 in May 2026, while intercity bus fares went from N4,002.16 to N9,699.55 in the same period.
- Air travel fares climbed from N74,948.78 to N157,552.19, and water transport fares increased from N1,045.15 to N2,276.48 between May 2023 and May 2026.
- Kaduna, Lagos, and Abia recorded the highest okada fares, while Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, and Kebbi had the lowest in May 2026.
- Motorists are urging the Federal Government to introduce measures to ease the impact of higher transportation costs.
