The Federal Ministry of Works has announced the complete closure of the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha for two weeks, beginning Monday, September 7, to allow for urgent emergency maintenance and rehabilitation.

The closure, which will run until Monday, September 21, will see motorists diverted to the Second Niger Bridge throughout the period.

The ministry said the emergency intervention became necessary following the deterioration of sections of the bridge, including damage caused by vandalism to expansion joints, stanchion steelwork and bolts.

Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, recently inspected the facility and expressed concern over its condition, directing that immediate emergency repairs be carried out to safeguard motorists and preserve the bridge’s structural integrity.

SKECC, the contractor handling the Km 0+000 to Km 20+000 section of the Onitsha-Enugu Dual Carriageway, has been assigned to execute the rehabilitation works.

The project will involve the milling and removal of deteriorated asphalt surfaces, the laying of approximately 40 millimetres of new asphalt wearing course, as well as other critical maintenance and safety improvements.

The rehabilitation will also include the installation of solar-powered streetlights and closed-circuit television cameras to improve surveillance and deter future acts of vandalism.

The ministry said traffic diversion routes, warning signs, safety barriers and traffic-control personnel would be deployed to guide motorists and minimise disruption during the closure.

Construction activities will continue day and night to ensure the project is completed as quickly as possible.

Motorists have been urged to comply with temporary traffic regulations, observe speed limits within construction zones and avoid reckless overtaking.

The ministry apologised for the inconvenience the closure may cause businesses and road users, stressing that the intervention is essential to restore the bridge, enhance its structural integrity and improve safety for all users.