Motorists travelling between Onitsha in Anambra State and Asaba in Delta State have received fresh news about the First Niger Bridge, with the Federal Government announcing that the bridge is expected to reopen to traffic next week.
The First Niger Bridge was closed to traffic on September 7, 2026, after authorities identified deteriorated sections of the bridge and damage caused by vandalism.
Some critical components, including bolts, nuts and portions of the expansion-joint steelwork, had been removed by vandals.
The closure was initially expected to last until September 21, but persistent rainfall disrupted the rehabilitation work, leading to a one-week extension.
When Will the Bridge Reopen?
Minister of Works David Umahi said after inspecting the ongoing work that the bridge is expected to reopen next week.
However, motorists should note that the reopening is dependent on the completion of the critical rehabilitation works and safety checks.
Umahi said the government would not rush to reopen the bridge before major structural work is completed.
What Has Been Repaired?
According to reports, rehabilitation work has included the replacement and securing of vandalised bolts and other damaged components.
The specialised expansion joint removed by vandals has also been manufactured and brought into the country for installation.
Damaged portions of the asphalt surface have also been worked on, while additional improvements involving lighting, CCTV surveillance and other safety features are being carried out.
What Should Motorists Expect?
Motorists should expect traffic-management measures around the bridge as work is completed and traffic is gradually restored.
Drivers are advised to:
Obey temporary road signs and instructions from traffic officials.
Reduce speed when approaching construction or rehabilitation areas.
Avoid reckless overtaking.
Avoid stopping or parking unnecessarily around the bridge approaches.
Give way to traffic-management personnel and emergency workers.
Plan journeys ahead, particularly during peak travel periods.
The Federal Road Safety Corps previously deployed personnel to strategic locations around Onitsha and surrounding routes to help manage traffic during the closure.
Second Niger Bridge Remains an Important Alternative
During the closure, motorists were directed to use the Second Niger Bridge through Obosi towards Asaba and other destinations.
The alternative route helped provide another connection between the South-East and South-South during the rehabilitation period.
Motorists should continue to pay attention to official traffic announcements in case there are changes to the reopening arrangements or temporary restrictions.
Safety Remains the Priority
The Minister of Works has stressed that the bridge will not be reopened simply to meet a deadline.
Authorities are also carrying out an assessment of the bridge’s structural condition above and below the water level. Additional solar-powered streetlights and CCTV facilities have been ordered as part of the wider safety measures.
For motorists, the key message is simple: the First Niger Bridge is expected to reopen next week, but road users should wait for official confirmation that the bridge has been declared ready for traffic before returning to it.
The reopening is expected to ease pressure on alternative routes and improve movement between Anambra and Delta states after weeks of disruption.
Juliandailygist will continue to provide updates as the Federal Government announces the confirmed reopening date and traffic arrangements.
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