First Niger Bridge: Umahi Orders Emergency Repairs, Says Second Niger Bridge To Serve As Alternative Route

The Federal Government has announced a temporary closure of the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State, for urgent repairs and maintenance works aimed at restoring the ageing structure to safety.

The bridge will be completely shut to all vehicular traffic from Monday, September 7, to Monday, September 21, 2026, a period of two weeks.

The Federal Ministry of Works said the closure became necessary following the discovery of serious deterioration and the alleged removal of critical components by scavengers.

The Anambra State Field Headquarters of the Ministry disclosed this in a statement signed by the State Controller, Timothy Emenike.

According to the ministry, damage is noticeable on the road surface and on key structural parts of the bridge. Affected components include parts of the expansion joint steelworks, as well as nuts and bolts on the stanchions and steel trusses.

The decision followed an inspection of the bridge by the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, during his recent working visit to Anambra State.

During the inspection, Umahi expressed concern over the condition of the bridge and directed the immediate commencement of emergency repair works.

The contractor handling the 20-kilometre section of the Onitsha-Enugu Dual Carriageway, SKECC, has been directed to begin the emergency works immediately.

As part of the intervention, the damaged asphalt on the bridge deck will be removed and replaced with about 40mm of new asphalt wearing course.

Other maintenance and safety works will also be carried out to improve the structural integrity and safety of the bridge.

In addition, the Federal Government said it will install solar-powered streetlights and CCTV cameras on the bridge.
The CCTV cameras, the ministry noted, are expected to improve security and help prevent the theft of important bridge components by scavengers.

During the two-week closure, motorists will be required to use alternative routes.

The ministry advised road users travelling through the area to use the Second Niger Bridge, through Obosi towards Asaba in Delta State, and other destinations beyond.

Motorists have also been urged to obey temporary road signs and diversion instructions, reduce speed around construction areas, and avoid reckless overtaking.

Traffic-control officers, safety barriers and other measures will be deployed to guide road users and protect both motorists and construction workers.

The ministry added that repair work will be carried out day and night to ensure completion within the scheduled two-week period.

The Federal Government acknowledged that the closure may cause inconvenience to motorists, businesses and residents who depend on the bridge daily.

However, it stressed that the emergency repairs are necessary to prevent further damage and to protect the lives of road users.

“The intervention is aimed at restoring the First Niger Bridge to a safe and motorable condition,” the statement said. “The repairs will also help preserve this important national asset and improve the smooth movement of people and goods along the Onitsha-Enugu corridor.”

The ministry appealed to residents and road users for understanding and cooperation during the period of the closure.