Umahi gives condition for reopening of First Niger Bridge
Minister of Works: First Niger Bridge Closure Extended for Structural Repairs
ONITSHA, Nigeria — Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, announced on Wednesday that the First Niger Bridge will remain closed until essential structural rehabilitation is fully completed.
During a visit to the bridge for an inspection of ongoing repairs, Umahi emphasized that the Federal Government will not be rushed into reopening the bridge until all critical components identified for rehabilitation have been properly addressed.
“We are not going to be stampeded to open the bridge until the major structural work has been achieved,” Umahi stated.
The First Niger Bridge was closed to traffic for emergency repairs after significant vandalism was discovered, impacting critical structural elements such as bolts, nuts, and portions of the expansion-joint steelwork.
Originally, the closure was scheduled to end on September 21; however, it has now been extended by one week due to persistent rainfall that has delayed the rehabilitation process.
