FG Announces Two-Week Closure of First Niger Bridge

The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Works, has announced the closure of the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State, for two weeks, beginning on September 7, 2026, to facilitate rehabilitation and maintenance works. The announcement was made in a press statement signed by Timothy Emenike, the Acting Federal Controller of Works.

The bridge, which connects Anambra and Delta states, will be fully closed to traffic until September 21, 2026. Motorists are advised to use the Second Niger Bridge route through Obosi towards Asaba and other destinations during this period.

The closure is due to the deteriorated condition of the bridge, particularly the carriageway surface and components affected by vandalism. Minister of Works, David Umahi, expressed concern over the bridge's condition and directed immediate emergency maintenance.

The contractor, Messrs SKECC, will carry out works including asphalt removal, installation of solar-powered streetlights, and traffic-control measures to restore the bridge's safety and motorability.