The Federal Government has announced the temporary closure of the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State, for two weeks to allow emergency maintenance and rehabilitation works.
The closure will take effect from Monday, September 7, 2026, and the bridge is expected to reopen on Monday, September 21, 2026.
The Federal Ministry of Works, through its Anambra State Field Headquarters, said the intervention became necessary following the deteriorating condition of the bridge, particularly its carriageway surface and some structural components that have been affected by vandalism.
Some of the affected components include portions of the expansion-joint steelwork as well as nuts and bolts on the bridge’s stanchions and steel trusses.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, reportedly raised concerns about the condition of the bridge during a recent inspection and directed that emergency maintenance work commence immediately. The contractor handling the relevant section of the Onitsha-Enugu Dual Carriageway, SKECC, has been directed to carry out the intervention.
The planned work will involve removing the deteriorated asphalt surface and laying approximately 40mm of new asphalt wearing course, alongside other maintenance and safety works.
The Federal Ministry of Works also plans to install solar-powered streetlights and CCTV cameras on the bridge as part of measures to improve security and deter further vandalism.
The ministry said the repairs will be carried out during the day and at night in an effort to complete the project within the two-week period and minimise disruption to road users.
Alternative Route
Motorists and other road users who normally use the First Niger Bridge have been advised to use the Second Niger Bridge through Obosi towards Asaba, Delta State, during the closure.
Authorities also urged motorists to obey temporary traffic signs and diversion instructions, reduce speed around construction areas, avoid reckless overtaking and follow directions from traffic-control personnel and security agencies.
Road users have further been advised to allow extra travel time and plan their journeys ahead of the closure period.
The Federal Government acknowledged that the temporary shutdown may cause inconvenience to motorists, commuters and businesses, but said the emergency intervention was necessary to restore the bridge to a safer and more durable condition.
