First Niger Bridge reopens after emergency repairs in Nigeria

The Nigerian federal government has reopened the First Niger Bridge, a critical transport link connecting Onitsha in Anambra State to Asaba in Delta State. The bridge had been closed since September 7 for emergency maintenance and structural repairs, with the reopening delayed by heavy rainfall.

Minister of Works Dave Umahi announced that the rehabilitation included repairing damaged components, improving road markings, installing solar-powered streetlights, and adding CCTV cameras to monitor for vandalism. While the bridge is open to traffic, Umahi noted that work is not 100 per cent complete.

In addition to the bridge, the Minister announced that President Bola Tinubu has directed a comprehensive redesign of the Benin–Asaba Expressway ahead of its reconstruction. The government also cancelled a remedial contract for the first 11 kilometres of that highway due to concerns regarding the quality of work.

During the reopening, the bridge featured displays of President Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima. Umahi stated these displays were intended to show appreciation for the President’s infrastructure investments in the South-East and South-South regions.