The Federal Government has announced the temporary closure of the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State, for two weeks.
The Federal Ministry of Works said the bridge would be fully closed to traffic for two weeks, starting from Monday, September 7, 2026, with the intervention expected to be completed by Monday, September 21, 2026.
The Acting Federal Controller of Works in Anambra State, Timothy Emenike, disclosed this in a statement on Friday, advising motorists and other road users to use the Second Niger Bridge that runs towards Asaba, Delta State, and other destinations beyond throughout the closure period.
The ministry said the closure became necessary following the deteriorated condition of the First Niger Bridge affected by vandalisation.
The affected components include portions of the expansion-joint steelwork as well as stanchion and steel-truss nuts and bolts.
According to the ministry, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, expressed concern over the condition of the bridge during his recent visit to Anambra State and directed the immediate commencement of emergency maintenance works.
The ministry said SKECC, the contractor handling the 20-kilometre section of the Onitsha-Enugu Dual Carriageway, had been directed to execute the emergency works.
The rehabilitation will involve the milling and removal of the deteriorated asphalt surface, followed by the laying of approximately 40mm of asphalt wearing course, alongside other maintenance and safety works.
The project will also include the installation of solar-powered streetlights and closed-circuit television cameras to enhance surveillance and deter vandalism.
The ministry said appropriate traffic diversion arrangements, road signs, safety barriers and traffic-control personnel would be deployed to guide motorists and ensure the safety of road users, including construction workers.
They were also advised to allow additional travel time and, where practicable, use the Second Niger Bridge via the Obosi-Asaba route as the preferred alternative.
The Federal Ministry of Works said construction activities would be carried out during the day and at night to facilitate rapid completion and minimise disruption to traffic.
