Rain Delays First Niger Bridge Reopening By One Week
The reopening of the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State, has been delayed by one week after persistent rainfall disrupted ongoing rehabilitation work on the major route.
The bridge was initially scheduled to reopen on Monday, September 21, following a two-week closure to allow emergency repairs and maintenance.
However, the Acting Federal Controller of Works in Anambra State, Timothy Emenike, said the rehabilitation could not be completed as scheduled because heavy rainfall affected work on some sections of the bridge.
He explained that contractors require at least three consecutive dry days to complete the outstanding work, with the new reopening timeline dependent on favourable weather conditions.
The ongoing rehabilitation includes repairs to damaged railings, bolts and nuts, sections of the expansion-joint steelwork and other parts of the bridge, alongside road-surface work and safety installations.
The closure has forced motorists travelling between Anambra and Delta states to rely heavily on alternative routes, including the Second Niger Bridge.
The Federal Ministry of Works is expected to inspect the bridge after the rehabilitation is completed before it is reopened to traffic.
The extended closure is expected to continue affecting motorists and commuters who use the major transport route.
