Commuters groan as rainfall delays First Niger Bridge reopening by one week

Rainfall has delayed the reopening of the First Niger Bridge by one week, causing increased traffic congestion, longer travel times and higher transportation costs for commuters traveling between Onitsha and Asaba. The bridge, which was closed from September 7 to 21, 2026, for rehabilitation, was expected to reopen on September 21, 2026.

However, heavy rainfall has caused setbacks in the project, necessitating a further delay. The Federal Government had announced the bridge's closure to carry out emergency repairs, including replacing vandalised railings, bolts and nuts, and installing CCTV cameras. However, the completion of the project has been delayed due to persistent rainfall affecting the work.

The reopening of the bridge may still be possible, contingent on the arrival of three consecutive dry days.