The Federal Government will temporarily shut the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State, for two weeks to allow emergency rehabilitation and maintenance work on the ageing infrastructure.
The closure is scheduled to begin on Monday, September 7, 2026, with the bridge expected to reopen on Monday, September 21, according to the Federal Ministry of Works.
The Acting Federal Controller of Works in Anambra State, Timothy Emenike, announced the development in a statement on Friday.
He explained that the decision was prompted by concerns over the deteriorating condition of the bridge, particularly damaged sections of the carriageway and some components affected by vandalisation.
The intervention was ordered by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, following his recent inspection of the bridge and other infrastructure in the state.
According to the ministry, SKECC, the contractor responsible for the relevant section of the Onitsha-Enugu Dual Carriageway, has been directed to immediately begin the emergency rehabilitation.
The repair will include the removal of the deteriorated asphalt surface and the installation of an approximately 40mm asphalt wearing course, alongside other maintenance and safety measures.
As part of efforts to enhance security around the bridge, the ministry also plans to install solar-powered streetlights and closed-circuit television cameras.
Emenike said the intervention is aimed at providing motorists with a safer and smoother road surface while improving traffic flow along the major transport corridor connecting Anambra and Delta states.
With the First Niger Bridge fully closed throughout the rehabilitation period, motorists have been advised to use the Second Niger Bridge through Obosi towards Asaba, Delta State, and other destinations beyond.
The ministry said traffic diversion measures, including road signs, safety barriers and traffic-control personnel, would be deployed to regulate vehicle movement and safeguard motorists, construction workers and other road users.
Motorists have been urged to reduce their speed around diversion and construction areas, avoid reckless overtaking and obey instructions from traffic-control personnel and security agencies.
The ministry also advised commuters and commercial road users to plan their journeys in advance and allow extra time for travel during the closure.
It said construction work would continue during both the day and night to ensure the emergency repairs are completed within the approximately two-week timeframe.
The First Niger Bridge remains a major transportation link between Anambra and Delta states, meaning the temporary closure is expected to affect commuters, commercial transport operators and businesses along the corridor.
The Federal Ministry of Works appealed to residents, businesses and other stakeholders to cooperate with the temporary traffic-management arrangements.
According to the ministry, although the closure may cause inconvenience, it is necessary to restore the bridge to a safer and more efficient condition while improving traffic movement along the route.
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