First Niger Bridge closure will begin on Monday, 7 September 2026, as the Federal Ministry of Works moves to repair damaged sections of the major bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State.
The ministry said the bridge would remain closed for two weeks. The decision follows an inspection by Works Minister Dave Umahi after vandals damaged and removed parts of the bridge.
According to the ministry, scavengers stole bolts and iron rods from some sections of the structure. Officials warned that the damage had weakened important bridge components.
The Anambra State Field Headquarters announced the closure in a statement signed by the State Controller, Timothy Emenike.
The statement urged motorists, commuters and other road users to take note of the temporary closure.
It said the bridge had developed problems with its carriageway surface. It also identified damage to parts of the expansion joint steelworks.
In addition, vandals removed stanchion and steel-truss nuts and bolts from the bridge.
The ministry said it would use the closure period to carry out the necessary repair work. Therefore, motorists travelling through Onitsha should prepare for possible delays and seek alternative routes where necessary.
The First Niger Bridge closure comes at a time when the bridge remains an important transport link for people and businesses moving between Anambra and other parts of south-eastern Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the government has continued to face pressure to maintain major transport infrastructure across the country. The latest action highlights the risks posed by vandalism to public infrastructure.
For motorists, the two-week closure could affect daily journeys, commercial transport and the movement of goods.
However, completing the repairs should help improve safety and restore the affected sections of the bridge.
The Federal Ministry of Works has therefore asked road users to cooperate with officials during the repair period.
Motorists should plan their journeys ahead and allow extra time for travel.
