The Federal Government has ordered the full closure of the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State, for two weeks as authorities move to carry out emergency rehabilitation and maintenance works on the major transportation link.
The Federal Ministry of Works, Anambra State Field Headquarters, announced that the bridge will be closed to traffic from Monday, September 7, 2026, with the emergency intervention expected to be completed by Monday, September 21.
The announcement was contained in a statement signed by the Acting Federal Controller of Works in Anambra State, Timothy Emenike.
The ministry said the closure became necessary because of the deteriorating condition of the bridge, particularly its carriageway surface and some components affected by vandalisation.
“The attention of the general public, motorists and other road users is hereby drawn to the deteriorated condition of the First Niger Bridge, Onitsha, particularly the carriageway surface and certain bridge components affected by vandalization,” the statement said.
According to the ministry, the affected components include portions of the expansion-joint steelwork as well as nuts and bolts connected to the bridge’s stanchion and steel truss.
The development followed a recent inspection visit by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, who expressed concern over the condition of the bridge and directed the immediate commencement of emergency rehabilitation.
The ministry has consequently directed SKECC, the contractor handling the 0+000 to 20+000 kilometre section of the Onitsha-Enugu Dual Carriageway, to undertake the emergency intervention.
The planned works will include milling and removing the deteriorated asphalt surface before laying approximately 40 millimetres of new asphalt wearing course. Additional maintenance and safety works will also be carried out.
As part of efforts to strengthen security around the bridge, the Federal Government will install solar-powered streetlights and closed-circuit television cameras to monitor activities and help deter further vandalisation.
Motorists have been directed to use the Second Niger Bridge through Obosi towards Asaba, Delta State, and other destinations beyond during the closure.
The ministry said traffic diversion arrangements, road signs, safety barriers and traffic-control personnel would be deployed to guide motorists and protect road users and construction workers.
It also advised motorists to obey temporary traffic signs, reduce speed around construction and diversion zones, avoid reckless overtaking and allow additional time for their journeys.
The ministry said construction activities would continue during the day and at night to accelerate completion and minimise disruption.
The temporary closure is expected to affect one of the major routes connecting the South-East with Delta State and other parts of Nigeria, making early travel planning essential for motorists and businesses operating along the corridor.
