The Federal Government has reopened the First Niger Bridge, which connects Onitsha in Anambra State to Asaba in Delta State, following 38 days of closure for emergency rehabilitation works.
The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, officially reopened the bridge on Thursday, 15 October 2026, at a ceremony attended by government officials, representatives of both states and traditional rulers.
The bridge was shut to traffic on 7 September after an inspection uncovered vandalised structural components, including damaged steelwork around the expansion joints. The Federal Government initially scheduled the reopening for 21 September, but persistent rainfall and other delays extended the closure.
During the maintenance period, motorists were diverted to the Second Niger Bridge and other alternative routes. The diversion increased travel times and transportation costs for commuters, traders and businesses operating between the South-East and South-South regions.
Speaking at the reopening ceremony, Umahi said the rehabilitation was necessary to improve the bridge’s condition, enhance road safety and ensure smoother movement of vehicles. He, however, acknowledged that some aspects of the work remained incomplete.
The minister commended the contractor, SKCC, as well as the governors of Anambra and Delta states, for their contributions to the rehabilitation project.
Umahi also praised President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s infrastructure investments in the South-East and South-South, urging residents of both regions to support the President’s re-election bid in 2027.
The minister expressed confidence in the administration’s commitment to improving road infrastructure and maintaining critical transport links across the country.
Meanwhile, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori welcomed the intervention, describing the bridge as a vital economic connection between the two regions. He stressed the importance of regular maintenance to prevent public infrastructure from deteriorating before repairs become necessary.
The Asagba of Asaba, Epiphany Azinge, also commended the rehabilitation, noting the bridge’s importance to trade, transportation and social relations between Anambra and Delta states.
Completed in 1965, the First Niger Bridge remains one of Nigeria’s most important transport links, facilitating the movement of people, goods and services between the South-East and South-South.
Its reopening is expected to ease traffic congestion, reduce pressure on alternative routes and provide relief to motorists and businesses affected by the prolonged closure.
