FG reopens First Niger Bridge after 38-day closure

The Federal Government has reopened the First Niger Bridge connecting Onitsha in Anambra State to Asaba in Delta State after a 38-day closure for emergency rehabilitation works. President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima had their photographs displayed on the bridge during its reopening. Inaugurated in 1965, the bridge serves as a crucial transport link between the South-East and South-South regions.

The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, opened the bridge alongside federal and state representatives, including traditional leaders from both states. The bridge was initially closed since September 7 to allow repairs after vandalized structural components like expansion-joint steelwork were discovered. The closure was extended indefinitely due to persistent rainfall and other delays.

During the ceremony, Umahi urged residents to support President Tinubu's re-election bid, praising his infrastructure projects in the region. He also commended the governors of Anambra and Delta states, and the contractor, SKCC, for their contributions to the project. The bridge's reopening is expected to improve traffic flow and ensure the safety of road users.