The Federal Government has reopened the First Niger Bridge linking Onitsha, Anambra State, to Asaba, Delta State, following a 38-day closure for emergency rehabilitation works.
Minister of Works Dave Umahi officially declared the bridge open on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at a ceremony attended by federal and state officials, as well as traditional rulers from Anambra and Delta states.
The reopening restores an important transport connection between Nigeria’s South-East and South-South regions after weeks of traffic diversions and travel disruptions.
Why the First Niger Bridge Was Closed
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The bridge was shut to traffic on September 7 after authorities discovered vandalised structural components, including damaged steelwork around its expansion joints.
The repairs were considered necessary to improve the condition of the ageing infrastructure and protect motorists using the busy route.
The closure was initially expected to end on September 21. However, persistent rainfall and unforeseen engineering challenges delayed the rehabilitation work, extending the disruption to approximately 38 days.
During the closure, motorists were advised to use the Second Niger Bridge as an alternative route between the two states.
Umahi Reopens Bridge, Praises Tinubu
Speaking during the reopening ceremony at the Onitsha end of the bridge, Umahi praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its infrastructure projects in the South-East and South-South.
The minister said the rehabilitation reflected the Federal Government’s commitment to maintaining important transport infrastructure and improving connectivity across the country.
He also urged residents of the two regions to appreciate the administration’s projects and support Tinubu’s re-election bid.
“We have no regret supporting President Bola Tinubu,” Umahi said, according to reports of the ceremony.
He also commended the governors of Anambra and Delta states and the contractor, SKCC, for their contributions to the rehabilitation project.
Additional Work Remains on the Bridge
Although the bridge has reopened to traffic, Umahi acknowledged that some maintenance work remained unfinished.
Reports from the site indicated that finishing work, including painting sections of the bridge and its railings, was still ongoing. Additional safety and monitoring features, including CCTV cameras and traffic-control measures, were also part of the wider rehabilitation effort.
The reopening therefore marks a significant step in restoring normal movement, but continued maintenance and protection of the bridge will remain important.
Authorities have raised concerns about vandalism and other activities that could weaken the structure. The bridge’s long-term safety will depend not only on repairs but also on regular inspections, enforcement of safety rules and the prevention of further damage.
Why the First Niger Bridge Matters
Completed in 1965, the First Niger Bridge is a major transport link between Onitsha and Asaba. It supports the movement of passengers, traders, commercial vehicles and goods between the South-East and South-South.
Its closure placed additional pressure on alternative routes and disrupted journeys for commuters and businesses that depend on the crossing.
The reopening is expected to ease travel between Anambra and Delta states and help restore smoother movement along this important corridor.
However, motorists are still expected to observe traffic rules and any instructions issued by road authorities as remaining work is completed.
Conclusion
The reopening of the First Niger Bridge after 38 days brings relief to commuters and businesses affected by the prolonged closure.
While the Federal Government has restored access to the crossing, the remaining maintenance work and protection of its structural components will be crucial to keeping the bridge safe and operational.
For residents and businesses across the South-East and South-South, the bridge remains an essential link for daily travel, commerce and regional economic activity.
