The Federal Ministry of Works has closed the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State, for emergency maintenance and rehabilitation.

The closure took effect on Monday, September 7, 2026, and is expected to last until September 21 as contractors carry out repairs on the deteriorated bridge.

The ministry said the intervention was prompted by the poor condition of the bridge’s carriageway and damage to some structural components caused by vandalism. The affected parts include sections of the expansion-joint steelwork, stanchions, and steel-truss nuts and bolts.

The rehabilitation will involve removing the deteriorated asphalt surface and laying a new 40mm asphalt wearing course, alongside other maintenance and safety works.

As part of efforts to improve security, the Federal Government will also install solar-powered streetlights and CCTV cameras on the bridge to enhance safety and deter further vandalism.

The ministry advised motorists to use the Second Niger Bridge through Obosi towards Asaba, Delta State, while the First Niger Bridge remains closed.

It said traffic diversion measures, road signs, safety barriers and traffic-control personnel would be deployed to minimise disruption and ensure the safety of motorists, pedestrians and construction workers.