First Niger Bridge Reopens After 38-Day Closure

The federal government has reopened the First Niger Bridge linking Asaba in Delta State with Onitsha in Anambra State, ending a 38-day closure for emergency maintenance and rehabilitation.

Minister of Works David Umahi reopened the bridge on Thursday, October 15, in the presence of federal officials, representatives of both states and traditional rulers. The work was initially scheduled to run from September 7 to September 21 but was extended after persistent rainfall disrupted the timeline.

During the reopening ceremony, Umahi praised the contractors for their work and said the rehabilitation was intended to improve traffic flow and protect road users. He also commended President Bola Tinubu for infrastructure projects in the South-East and South-South.

The bridge is a key transport link for commuters, traders and businesses moving between the two regions. Its reopening is expected to ease travel and commercial movement following weeks of disruption.

Completed in 1965, the First Niger Bridge remains an important part of Nigeria’s transport network. The Second Niger Bridge, commissioned in May 2023, was built to help reduce pressure on the older crossing.

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