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The Federal Ministry of Works has announced the temporary closure of the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha for two weeks to carry out emergency maintenance and rehabilitation of the aging structure.
According to the ministry, the bridge will be shut to vehicular traffic from Monday, September 7, to Monday, September 21, 2026, with motorists directed to use the Second Niger Bridge throughout the period.
The decision follows a recent inspection by the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, who expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of the bridge, including damage caused by vandalism.
In a statement signed by the Anambra State Controller of Works, Timothy Emenike, the ministry said sections of the carriageway, expansion joints and other structural components had suffered significant deterioration.
"The attention of the general public, motorists and other road users is hereby drawn to the deteriorated condition of the First Niger Bridge, particularly the carriageway surface and certain bridge components affected by vandalisation," the statement said.
It added that the minister directed the immediate commencement of emergency repairs after inspecting the damaged sections during his recent visit to Anambra State.
The ministry said SKECC, the contractor handling the Km 0+000 to Km 20+000 section of the Onitsha-Enugu Dual Carriageway, has been mobilised to undertake the rehabilitation.
Motorists travelling through the area have been advised to use the Second Niger Bridge via Obosi towards Asaba and other destinations during the closure.
To minimise disruption, the ministry said traffic diversion routes, warning signs, safety barriers and traffic control personnel would be deployed to guide road users.
It also urged motorists to obey diversion signs, reduce speed around construction zones and avoid dangerous overtaking.
The rehabilitation will involve milling and replacing damaged asphalt, laying a new 40mm asphalt wearing course and carrying out other structural maintenance works.
The project will also include the installation of solar-powered streetlights and closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to enhance security and deter vandalism on the bridge.
The ministry said work would be carried out both day and night to ensure timely completion of the repairs.
It apologised to motorists, businesses and other road users for the inconvenience, stressing that the intervention is necessary to improve the bridge's structural integrity and ensure the safety of commuters.
