The Federal Government has officially reopened the iconic First Niger Bridge to traffic, concluding an extended 38-day closure that temporarily severed the crucial connection between Onitsha in Anambra State and Asaba in Delta State. This significant reopening restores a vital economic and social artery for residents and commuters across the Niger River.
Reopening Marks End of Extended Closure
Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, led the reopening ceremony on Thursday from the Onitsha end of the bridge. He was accompanied by key federal and state representatives, including traditional rulers from both Anambra and Delta states, highlighting the regional significance of the rehabilitated infrastructure.
The bridge, which dates back to 1965, was initially closed from September 7 to 21. This preventative measure was taken to facilitate urgent rehabilitation and maintenance works after structural components, including vital expansion-joint steelwork, were found to be vandalized. However, the planned two-week closure was subsequently extended indefinitely, primarily due to persistent rainfall and other unexpected challenges that delayed the comprehensive repair efforts.
Urgent Repairs Address Structural Damage
During the ceremony, Minister Umahi confirmed that all essential infrastructure on the bridge had been meticulously fixed to ensure unimpeded traffic flow and enhance the safety of all road users. He lauded the exemplary work of the contractors, SKCC, for their dedication and expressed appreciation to the governors of Anambra and Delta states for their cooperation.
Umahi emphasized that these rehabilitation efforts were strategically designed to alleviate traffic congestion and bolster the overall safety framework for motorists navigating the critical crossing.
Minister Umahi Touts Tinubu’s South-East Development, Campaigns for 2027 Re-election
In his address, Minister Umahi also used the platform to commend President Bola Tinubu, asserting that the President has demonstrated significant commitment to the development of the South-East and South-South regions. He passionately urged the people to acknowledge these efforts by supporting President Tinubu’s re-election bid in January 2027.
Umahi stated, "The evidence of what we are doing today is a total testimony that President Bola Tinubu is indeed a detribalized Nigerian. What other regions are getting, the people of the South-South and South-East are getting it." He further declared his unwavering support for the President, stating, "I have no regret supporting Mr. President. I am very, very proud for him to be my boss. He is the most qualified and eminently qualified to lead this country." He also challenged previous administrations’ inaction on other critical regional infrastructure, such as the Enugu-Onitsha Road, to underscore President Tinubu’s current impact.