Federal government orders two-week closure of First Niger Bridge

Nigeria’s federal government will shut the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State, for two weeks while crews carry out emergency rehabilitation and maintenance.

The bridge will close fully on Monday, Sept. 7, 2026, and is expected to reopen on Monday, Sept. 21. The route connects motorists traveling between Anambra and Delta states.

Timothy Emenike, acting federal controller of works in Anambra, advised drivers and other road users to take the Second Niger Bridge through Obosi toward Asaba and other destinations. Authorities said they would install diversion signs, safety barriers and traffic-control measures, with personnel deployed to guide motorists and protect the public and construction workers.

The government cited the deteriorated carriageway surface and damage to bridge components affected by vandalism, including parts of the expansion-joint steelwork and nuts and bolts on the stanchions and steel trusses. Works Minister David Umahi ordered the emergency intervention after expressing concern about the bridge during a recent visit to Anambra.

The contractor, SKECC, will remove the deteriorated asphalt and lay an approximately 40-millimetre wearing course, along with associated maintenance and safety works. The project also includes solar-powered streetlights and closed-circuit television cameras. Officials said the work aims to restore a safe, smooth and durable surface and ease traffic problems around the bridge.