The bridge was closed on September 7 after vandals removed bolts, nuts and sections of expansion-joint steelwork. Umahi said the damaged components had been replaced, while additional CCTV cameras, solar lights and other safety measures were being installed to protect the structure.
The minister said the bridge would reopen only after all major rehabilitation works are completed, adding that the closure had been extended because of persistent rainfall. He also reiterated restrictions on sand dredging near bridges and called for stronger protection of critical public infrastructure.
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Works Minister David Umahi has urged Anambra and Delta governments to closely monitor scrap markets following repeated vandalism of critical components of the First Niger Bridge. Minister of Works David Umahi has urged the governments of Anambra and Delta states to closely monitor scrap markets following repeated theft and vandalism of critical components of the First Niger Bridge...
Key takeaways
- Works Minister David Umahi has urged Anambra and Delta governments to closely monitor scrap markets following repeated vandalism of critical components of the First Niger Bridge.
- Minister of Works David Umahi has urged the governments of Anambra and Delta states to closely monitor scrap markets following repeated theft and vandalism of critical components of the First Niger Bridge linking Onitsha and Asaba.
- He made the call during an inspection of rehabilitation work at the Onitsha end of the bridge.The bridge was closed on September 7 after vandals removed bolts, nuts and sections of expansion-joint steelwork.
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Works Minister David Umahi has urged Anambra and Delta governments to closely monitor scrap markets following repeated vandalism of critical components of the First Niger Bridge. Minister of Works David Umahi has urged the governments of Anambra and Delta states to closely monitor scrap markets following repeated theft and vandalism of critical components of the First Niger Bridge...
Who published this story?
Glow 99.1 FM published this story with Babatunde Ademola Fadewo listed as author.
When was it published?
September 24, 2026
