First Niger bridge

  The First Niger Bridge linking Onitsha, Anambra State, to Asaba, Delta State, may be reopened to traffic before the end of this week, the Federal Controller of Works in Anambra State, Timothy Emenike, has said. Emenike gave the assurance on Wednesday while speaking with journalists about the ongoing finishing works on the bridge. He said major rehabilitation activities, including asphalt laying, repairs to expansion bolts and other critical structural works, had been completed, with only finishing works such as the painting of railings and installation of solar light poles ongoing. “Barring unforeseen circumstances, the bridge could be reopened before the end of the week,” Emenike said. He added that all necessary infrastructure had been put in place to ensure the free flow of traffic and improve the safety of road users. The bridge was closed to traffic from September 7 to 21 for emergency rehabilitation after vandalised structural components, including expansion-joint steelwork, were discovered. The closure was later extended by one week due to persistent rainfall and other unforeseen circumstances. During an inspection on September 23, the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, had said the bridge would not be reopened until the major structural repairs were completed. “We are not going to be stampeded to open the bridge until the major structural work has been achieved,” Umahi said at the time. The prolonged closure forced motorists to use the Second Niger Bridge and other alternative routes, leading to longer travel times and increased transportation costs. Meanwhile, Emenike dismissed reports that newly installed brick demarcations on the bridge had been removed or destroyed. He said the openings seen along the demarcation were deliberately created to allow emergency U-turns. “The alleged removal of the brick demarcation that was installed after the bridge rehabilitation is one of the lies some disgruntled elements are telling and posting with fake pictures on social media to discredit the ministry and deceive the public,” he said. The expected reopening is likely to ease traffic pressure and improve movement between Onitsha and Asaba, particularly for commuters, traders and businesses that rely heavily on the major transport link.