Two-Week Closure of First Niger Bridge”} NEWS: FG Orders Two-Week Closure of First Niger Bridge

 

The Federal Government has ordered the temporary closure of the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State, for two weeks to allow emergency maintenance and rehabilitation works on the major transport link connecting Anambra and Delta states.

The Federal Ministry of Works announced that the bridge would be fully closed to traffic from Monday, September 7, 2026, with the emergency works expected to be completed by Monday, September 21. 

The announcement was contained in a statement signed by Timothy Emenike, the Acting Federal Controller of Works in Anambra State, following a recent inspection of the First and Second Niger bridges by the Minister of Works, David Umahi.

According to the ministry, the closure became necessary because of the deteriorating condition of the First Niger Bridge, particularly its carriageway surface and some bridge components affected by vandalisation.

The ministry identified portions of the expansion-joint steelwork as well as some stanchion and steel-truss nuts and bolts among the components affected by vandalism. The condition of the bridge reportedly raised concerns about its safety and motorability, prompting the minister to direct the immediate commencement of emergency rehabilitation. 

The contractor handling the affected section of the Onitsha-Enugu Dual Carriageway, SKECC, has been directed to commence the emergency intervention on the bridge.

The planned rehabilitation will involve milling and removing the deteriorated asphalt surface before laying an approximately 40mm asphalt wearing course. Other maintenance and safety works will also be carried out as part of the intervention.

The Federal Ministry of Works also plans to install solar-powered streetlights and closed-circuit television cameras on the bridge. The CCTV installation is expected to strengthen surveillance and help deter further vandalism, while the improved lighting will enhance visibility for motorists.

During the closure, motorists travelling between Anambra and Delta states and other destinations have been advised to use the Second Niger Bridge through Obosi towards Asaba, Delta State.