The Federal Government has announced the temporary closure of the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State, for emergency repair works.
The closure, announced by the Federal Ministry of Works, Anambra State Field Headquarters, will begin on Monday, September 7, 2026, and last until Monday, September 21, 2026.
The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, had earlier indicated that the bridge would be closed for repairs after inspecting a vandalised section where bolts and iron rods had been removed.
In a statement issued by the Federal Controller of Works in Anambra State, Timothy Emenike, the ministry drew the attention of motorists and other road users to the deteriorating condition of the bridge, particularly the carriageway surface and components affected by vandalism.
The statement noted that portions of the expansion joint steelwork had also been damaged.
According to the ministry, Umahi expressed serious concern over the condition of the bridge during his recent inspection and directed the immediate commencement of emergency maintenance and rehabilitation works to restore the facility to a safe and motorable condition.
The ministry advised motorists and other road users to use the Second Niger Bridge route through Obosi towards Asaba, Delta State, throughout the closure period.
It added that appropriate traffic diversion arrangements, road signs, safety barriers, traffic control personnel and other necessary safety measures would be deployed to guide motorists and ensure the safety of road users, construction workers and members of the public.
The ministry appealed to motorists to cooperate with traffic management personnel and comply with diversion arrangements during the repair period. members of the public.
