FG to ban heavy vehicles on First Niger Bridge

The Federal Government is contemplating the diversion of heavy-duty vehicles and trucks to the Second Niger Bridge as a temporary solution to the persistent gridlocks plaguing the First Niger Bridge. Anambra State Federal Controller of Works, Timothy Emenike, revealed this in an interview, stating that a barrier might be installed at both ends of the bridge in the near future to prevent heavy-duty trucks from using the congested route.

Recent observations at the First Niger Bridge have indicated that the gridlock, which has been ongoing since its reopening on October 15, 2026, continues to plague the bridge connecting Onitsha in Anambra State and Asaba in Delta State. The bridge was initially closed on September 7, 2026, after the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, identified severe structural vandalism, including missing bolts, cut steel components, and damaged expansion-jointed steelwork.

Following its reopening, new road demarcations and a median were added, reducing the lanes on the bridge and increasing the likelihood of gridlock.

Motorists and commuters have complained about broken-down trailers and heavy-duty trucks getting trapped in the newly-demarcated lanes, causing significant traffic disruptions. Gridlock is exacerbated when a heavy-duty truck breaks down, leaving other vehicles no option but to remain in one direction. Emenike urged drivers to ensure broken-down vehicles are parked in a manner that does not obstruct other road users. He emphasized the need for motorists to take responsibility for preventing gridlock.

The ministry is exploring various measures to ease traffic, particularly as the Yuletide season approaches. Emenike stressed that the gridlock can be prevented if motorists act responsibly. The ministry plans to provide towing vans at both ends of the bridge for the easy removal of broken-down vehicles. However, as of now, this has not been implemented.

Despite the demarcations, some drivers have criticized the new design, asserting that it makes it difficult for vehicles to navigate when one breaks down, leading to severe traffic standstills.