Transport fares from Lagos to the South-Eastern states have begun climbing ahead of the annual Christmas travel surge, with operators cautioning that prices will spike further from December 18 when demand traditionally peaks.
A market survey across major Lagos motor parks shows current fares ranging from N25,500 to N73,500, depending on destination and vehicle type. Operators project a 20%–30% increase as the festive season reaches full swing.
The South-East—comprising Anambra, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, and Abia—remains one of the busiest outbound routes from Lagos during the yuletide, as thousands head home for family reunions, social engagements, and cultural celebrations.
A pricing assessment conducted at Jibowu, Mile 2, Iyana Ipaja, and Ikorodu Garage, supported by online fare checks, indicates rising costs across both 15-seater and 7-seater buses. Ticketing officials say adjustments are already underway and will continue “gradually but steadily.”
A ticketing clerk at Peace Mass Transit, Ikorodu Garage Terminal, explained that fare increases occur in increments of N1,000 to N1,500, eventually settling at peak rates by December 18. He recalled that in December 2024, fares for 15-seater buses jumped from an average N32,000 to N41,500, reflecting the heavy demand.
Based on historical patterns and operator insights, 2025 peak fares are projected as follows:
15-seater buses:
- Low end: ≈N30,600
- High end: ≈N67,600
7-seater buses:
- Low end: ≈N55,000
- High end: ≈N93,600 for premium vehicles with on-time departures
Top operators using 15-seater vehicles are expected to charge between N54,000 and N67,600.
Transport analysts say the sharp increase in road travel fares is normal for December, driven largely by demand–supply imbalances.
“Every Christmas, we see the same pattern—more travellers than available seats. Transport companies adjust prices because they must balance huge outbound demand with nearly empty return trips,” explained Dr. Emeka Okorie, a transportation economist at the University of Lagos.
A park manager at Iyana Ipaja echoed this, saying: “When buses return from the East, they often carry very few passengers. The high fares during this period help offset the cost of running nearly empty trips.”
Operational pressures also contribute. December’s intense heat speeds up tyre wear, forcing operators to replace multiple tyres during the season. A transport worker at Ojota, who preferred anonymity, said:
“A single tyre costs about N40,000 for used ones. We sometimes replace two or three in December alone. It all adds up.”
Fuel costs remain a major burden. A 7-seater vehicle cannot complete the Lagos–South-East route on a single 130-litre tank. After leaving Lagos, drivers must refuel at stations where prices often exceed N1,000 per litre, compared to N880–N900 within Lagos.
According to Chibuike Amadi, manager of a Jibowu-based 7-seater transport firm:
“Refuelling after Lagos is unavoidable, and the higher fuel prices in the East contribute significantly to December fare hikes.”
With no functional rail link between Lagos and the five South-Eastern states, travellers are left with only road and air options.
However, airfares have risen by 200%–300%, with Lagos–Enugu and Lagos–Owerri tickets surpassing N350,000. Aviation analysts attribute the surge to high demand, last-minute bookings, limited aircraft, and a “bucket pricing” model that increases fares as seats fill up.
Dr. Amina Yusuf, an aviation sector specialist, noted: “Only 0.02% of Nigerians fly, so airlines can’t achieve economies of scale. With forex pressures, high fuel prices, and multiple charges, December fares inevitably skyrocket.”
Despite rising costs, road travel remains the most practical option for most travellers. Inter-state buses continue to offer flexibility, varied comfort levels, and predictable schedules—advantages that keep them as the backbone of Lagos–South-East holiday travel.