The Federal Ministry of Works has announced the closure of the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State, for two weeks to allow emergency rehabilitation and maintenance works. The bridge will be closed to traffic from Monday, September 7, and is expected to reopen on Monday, September 21, 2026.

The Acting Federal Controller of Works in Anambra, Timothy Emenike, said the intervention became necessary due to the deteriorated carriageway and vandalised bridge components, including parts of the expansion-joint steelwork and stanchion/truss bolts. The works will include removing the damaged asphalt and laying a new 40mm wearing course, as well as installing solar-powered streetlights, CCTV cameras and other safety infrastructure.

Motorists have been advised to use the Second Niger Bridge through Obosi towards Asaba, Delta State, throughout the closure. The ministry said traffic diversion measures, road signs, safety barriers and traffic-control personnel would be deployed, while motorists are urged to reduce speed, obey diversion instructions and allow extra travel time.