Governance
First Niger Bridge Closure: Motorists Directed to Second Niger Bridge
The Federal Government has announced the temporary closure of the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha for two weeks to enable emergency repair works aimed at restoring the facility to a safe and motorable condition.
According to a statement by the Federal Ministry of Works, the bridge will be closed from September 7 to September 21, 2026.
The statement said the repair works followed a directive by the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, after an inspection uncovered vandalised sections of the bridge, including stolen bolts, iron rods and damaged expansion joint steelworks.
The ministry expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of the carriageway surface and other critical components affected by vandalism.
It advised motorists and other road users to use the Second Niger Bridge route through Obosi towards Asaba throughout the closure period.
The ministry also assured road users that traffic diversion arrangements, road signs, safety barriers and traffic control personnel would be deployed to ensure the safety of motorists, other road users and construction workers during the rehabilitation works.
