The Federal Government will close the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha for two weeks from Monday for emergency repairs.
The Federal Ministry of Works announced that the closure will occur from September 7th to 21st, advising motorists to use the Second Niger Bridge via Obosi and Asaba, Delta State.
The decision was made after an inspection by Works Minister David Umahi, who expressed concerns about the bridge's condition. He noted that the carriageway surface had deteriorated, and some parts of the bridge had been damaged or removed due to vandalism.
“The attention of the general public, motorists, and other road users is hereby drawn to the deteriorated condition of the First Niger Bridge,” the ministry stated.
Affected components include sections of the expansion-joint steelwork and some nuts and bolts on the steel structure.
The ministry also said SKECC, the contractor responsible for part of the Onitsha-Enugu Dual Carriageway project, has been directed to start emergency repairs.
These repairs will involve removing damaged asphalt and laying approximately 40 millimeters of new asphalt. Additional maintenance and safety measures will also be undertaken.
Furthermore, the government plans to install solar-powered streetlights and CCTV cameras to boost security and help prevent vandalism.
The ministry assured that the work would be carried out day and night to minimize traffic disruptions.
“The First Niger Bridge will be fully closed to traffic from Monday, September 7, 2026,” the ministry confirmed.
Motorists are also advised to obey diversion signs, reduce speed, and avoid reckless overtaking near construction zones.
While acknowledging that the closure might cause “temporary inconvenience," the ministry emphasized that the work is essential “to restore the First Niger Bridge to a safer and more efficient condition.”
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