First Niger Bridge Fully Closed as FG Begins Two-Week Emergency Repairs

The Federal Ministry of Works has fully closed the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State, for emergency maintenance and rehabilitation.

The closure took effect on Monday, September 7, 2026, and the Federal Government expects the rehabilitation work to continue until September 21.

The ministry said the intervention became necessary due to the deteriorated condition of the bridge’s carriageway and damage to some structural components allegedly caused by vandalism.

Affected components include parts of the expansion-joint steelwork, as well as stanchion and steel-truss nuts and bolts.

According to the ministry, the rehabilitation will involve removing the deteriorated asphalt surface and laying a new approximately 40mm asphalt wearing course, alongside other maintenance and safety works.

The Federal Government will also install solar-powered streetlights and CCTV cameras on the bridge as part of measures to improve safety, enhance monitoring and deter vandalism.

During the closure, motorists have been directed to use the Second Niger Bridge through Obosi towards Asaba in Delta State.

The ministry said traffic diversion arrangements, road signs, safety barriers and traffic-control personnel would be deployed to minimise disruption and protect both road users and construction workers throughout the rehabilitation period.

Motorists travelling through the Onitsha axis are advised to plan their journeys ahead and comply with traffic diversion signs and instructions during the two-week closure.