FG Orders Two-Week Closure Of First Niger Bridge For Repairs

The Federal Ministry of Works has announced a two-week closure of the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha for emergency repairs.

The closure is scheduled to begin on Monday, September 7, 2026, and end on Monday, September 21, 2026. Motorists have been directed to use the Second Niger Bridge route through Obosi towards Asaba and other destinations during the work.

Daily Post reported that the decision followed a visit by Works Minister Dave Umahi to inspect vandalised sections of the bridge, including bolts, iron rods and parts of the expansion-joint steelwork.

Punch reported that the Federal Controller of Works in Anambra State, Echemezie Timothy, signed the public notice. The ministry said the contractor handling the Onitsha-Enugu Dual Carriageway section had been directed to begin emergency maintenance on the bridge.

The ministry said road signs, safety barriers and traffic-control personnel would be deployed to guide motorists. It also advised road users to cooperate with security and traffic officials throughout the repair period.

Sources: Punch, Daily Post