REPORTER: UCHE NDEKE
The Federal government has announced the closure of the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha for the commencement of emergency repair works on it.
The closure announced by the Federal Ministry of Works Anambra State Field Headquarters will last for a period of two weeks from Monday September 7, 2026 to Monday September 21 2026.
Minister of Works, Senator David Nweze Umahi had during the inspection of a vandalized section of the bridge where bolts and iron rods were removed indicated that the bridge will be closed to replace the stolen components.
In a press release by the Federal Controller of works in Anambra State Mr Timothy Emenike, on the closure the ministry drew the attention of the general public ,motorists and other road users to the deteriorated condition of the bridge particularly the carriageway surface and some components affected by vandalization including portions of the expansion joint steelworks .
According to the statement, the Minister of Works expressed serious concern over the state of the facility during his recent visit and directed the commencement of emergency maintenance and rehabilitation works to restore it to a safe and properly motorable condition.
The statement encourages motorists and other road users to use the Second Niger Bridge route through Obosi towards Asaba in Delta State throughout the closure of the period.
It emphasises that appropriate traffic diversion arrangements, road signs, safety barriers, traffic control personnel and other necessary safety measures will be deployed to guide motorists and ensure the safety of road users construction personnel and members of the public.
