Examining the Operational Challenges of School Bus Transport Services in Private Schools in Lagos State

School bus transport services play a pivotal role in ensuring the safe and punctual movement of students in urban areas, yet the management of these services in Nigeria presents numerous operational challenges. This study examines the operational challenges facing school bus transport services in selected private schools in Lagos State, South West Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted, with data gathered from 100 school transport managers, 80 parents, and 30 school bus drivers through structured questionnaires and interviews. The study evaluates vehicle maintenance practices, driver vetting procedures, route planning, regulatory compliance, and parent satisfaction levels. Findings reveal that vehicle maintenance is largely reactive rather than preventive in most schools surveyed, with buses frequently breaking down during service hours. Driver vetting is inconsistent, with only 35 percent of schools conducting verified criminal background checks. Route planning is not formally documented in over half of the schools, leading to extended travel times and student fatigue. Compliance with Lagos State School Transport Scheme regulations is partial across the sample. Parents express high dissatisfaction with communication during breakdown emergencies. The study recommends the adoption of fleet management software, structured driver welfare and training programmes, and mandatory adherence to the Lagos State School Transport Scheme guidelines. These findings are relevant for school management boards, education regulators, and transport management professionals working within the private education sector. Keywords: school transport, Lagos, bus management, fleet operations, student safety.